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All the Lost Places
When all of Venice is unmasked, one man's identity remains a mystery . . .
1807
When a baby is discovered floating in a basket along the quiet canals of Venice, a guild of artisans takes him in and raises him as a son, skilled in each of their trades. Although the boy, Sebastien Trovato, has wrestled with questions of his origins, it isn't until a woman washes ashore on his lagoon island that answers begin to emerge. In hunting down his story, Sebastien must make a choice that could alter not just his own future, but also that of the beloved floating city.
1904
Daniel Goodman is given a fresh start in life as the century turns. Hoping to redeem a past laden with regrets, he is sent on an assignment from California to Venice to procure and translate a rare book. There, he discovers a city of colliding hope and decay, much like his own life, and a mystery wrapped in the pages of that filigree-covered volume. With the help of Vittoria, a bookshop keeper, Daniel finds himself in a web of shadows, secrets, and discoveries carefully kept within the stones and canals of the ancient city . . . and in the mystery of the man whose story the book does not Sebastien Trovato.
"Introspective, surprising, and achingly beautiful."--Booklist starred review
"Dykes's pen is fused with magic and poetry. Every word's a gentle wave building into the splendor that is All the Lost Places, where struggles for identity and a place to belong find hope between the pages of a timeless story."--J'NELL CIESIELSKI, bestselling author of The Socialite
"Luscious writing, authentic characters, and an ending that satisfies to the core of the spirit, this novel is another winner from Amanda Dykes."--HEIDI CHIAVAROLI, Carol Award-winning author of Freedom's Ring and Hope Beyond the Waves.
1807
When a baby is discovered floating in a basket along the quiet canals of Venice, a guild of artisans takes him in and raises him as a son, skilled in each of their trades. Although the boy, Sebastien Trovato, has wrestled with questions of his origins, it isn't until a woman washes ashore on his lagoon island that answers begin to emerge. In hunting down his story, Sebastien must make a choice that could alter not just his own future, but also that of the beloved floating city.
1904
Daniel Goodman is given a fresh start in life as the century turns. Hoping to redeem a past laden with regrets, he is sent on an assignment from California to Venice to procure and translate a rare book. There, he discovers a city of colliding hope and decay, much like his own life, and a mystery wrapped in the pages of that filigree-covered volume. With the help of Vittoria, a bookshop keeper, Daniel finds himself in a web of shadows, secrets, and discoveries carefully kept within the stones and canals of the ancient city . . . and in the mystery of the man whose story the book does not Sebastien Trovato.
"Introspective, surprising, and achingly beautiful."--Booklist starred review
"Dykes's pen is fused with magic and poetry. Every word's a gentle wave building into the splendor that is All the Lost Places, where struggles for identity and a place to belong find hope between the pages of a timeless story."--J'NELL CIESIELSKI, bestselling author of The Socialite
"Luscious writing, authentic characters, and an ending that satisfies to the core of the spirit, this novel is another winner from Amanda Dykes."--HEIDI CHIAVAROLI, Carol Award-winning author of Freedom's Ring and Hope Beyond the Waves.
400 pages, Paperback
First published December 13, 2022
285 people are currently reading
7476 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Dykes
16 books1,382 followersAmanda Dykes is a drinker of tea, dweller of redemption, and spinner of hope-filled tales who spends most days chasing wonder and words with her family. She's the winner of the 2020 Christy Award Book of the Year, a Booklist 2019 Top Ten title, and the winner of an INSPY award for her debut novel, Whose Waves These Are. She’s also the author of Set the Stars Alight (a Christy Award finalist), Yours is the Night (recipient of the Kipp Award), All the Lost Places (starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Foreword), and three novellas. Find her online at amandadykes.com.
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January 16, 2023I don't know how this keeps happening, you guys. This is the SECOND book of mine in the past few years that I have somehow accidentally marked as "currently reading" on Goodreads without knowing when or how I did it. So now it keeps asking me to rate my own book. I shan't! I can't! I refuse! But I will just say, this book certainly took me on a journey. To the enchanting magic of Venice, and then into the waters of story where I was letting my characters grapple with certain questions...and then life turned right back around and asked those same questions of me. It was strange and hard and unexpectedly beautiful to live that... and now here, at the other end of it, I'm so grateful. Grateful for the chance to learn and grow, grateful for the chance to have gotten to be a part of this story. I hope you enjoy it, friends.
February 23, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
I’ve been hearing absolutely amazing things about Amanda Dykes for years, but when I first read one of her novellas in The Kissing Tree collection, I wasn’t impressed. The “pizzazz” in her writing that everyone lauded never caught my eye.
Then came December. I received an ARC of All the Lost Places in the mail, which I’d requested to read because I am a sucker for anything set in Italy and because I was determined to ferret out what made Dykes so beloved.
(Before I got started with ATLP, I also read a few of her free Christmas short stories and was pretty impressed, but short stories vs a novel? I had to see that for a myself…)
So I cracked open the pages of All the Lost Places (even though it’s a paperback copy, so there was really no “cracking” involved) and was transported into what is truly a masterpiece of a story.
*brain implodes*
Everyone was right. Amanda Dykes’ writing doesn’t just have “pizzazz”…it has spirit, life, an entire poem hidden in every sentence.
I know there are some people who prefer cut-and-dry writing who wouldn’t enjoy Dykes’ prose, but I am no such person, so I was swimming in the beauty of it all. Dykes made not only the heavenly setting but also the emotion and history and mystery of it all come to life in the most vibrant of colors, and I am simply impressed.
But the most beautiful? THE CHARACTERS. First of all, WE HAD A MALE MC. Y’ALL, THAT WAS AMAZING. I get so tired (if you haven’t noticed) of reading the same ol’ cabron-copy cookie-cutter female, so believe me when I say that Daniel was (1) the absolute best and (2) such a refresher. His character was so intriguing and simply a pleasure to read. He was well-written with an emotional journey, and at the same time, he was an admirable, relatable hero. Just all-around amazing, y’all. I need more male main characters (not just love interests) in Christian historical fiction/romance, please and thank you.
On that note, Sebastian was also a five-star hero, and I honestly could’ve read a whole book from his POV.
As if two phenomenal dudes wasn’t enough for this girl, Dykes gave me two equally wonderful heroines, and I could literally cry. Y’all. Vittoria and Marianna were what this genre, what this world needs, out of female characters these days. They were tender and sweet, headstrong and independent, compassionate and caring, genuine and authentic. I loved them. They weren’t at all like female POV characters—i.e., whiny, cliché, feminist-y, or inauthentic. They were real, and they did a fabulous job of supporting the main men, while also bringing their own flair and flavor to the story.
Plus the secondary characters (especially Massimo) were *chef’s kiss* bella, bella!
So, my only qualm with the entire novel actually has to do with my man Danny-boy. His arc felt incomplete. Like, it was amazing, on the fast-track to character developmental success, until the ending was wrapped up just a wee bit too quickly and his arc loosely knotted up. But otherwise, I can’t complain. This story was too mysterious and dark and profound and inspiring and immersive to have more than one minimal qualm. 😂
And y’all. This technically counts as dual-time, and let me just say...authors are upping their game. These last few dual-time novels I’ve read have been actually good, so unique, with each timeline equally interesting and woven together seamlessly—and this one is no exception! I fell in love with both Daniel’s journey and Sebastian’s life story and devoured every word in both timelines.
Speaking of devouring words...even though the story itself was kinda light and subtle in the faith and spirituality department, the author’s note literally made me tear up. It was...so beautiful and edifying and inspiring and enriching and gorgeous and I just…augh. I can’t. It was by far my favorite author’s note ever, and such a pleasure to read.
So...I did it, y’all. I solved the mystery of why everyone loves Amanda Dykes. And know I love her too.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
I’ve been hearing absolutely amazing things about Amanda Dykes for years, but when I first read one of her novellas in The Kissing Tree collection, I wasn’t impressed. The “pizzazz” in her writing that everyone lauded never caught my eye.
Then came December. I received an ARC of All the Lost Places in the mail, which I’d requested to read because I am a sucker for anything set in Italy and because I was determined to ferret out what made Dykes so beloved.
(Before I got started with ATLP, I also read a few of her free Christmas short stories and was pretty impressed, but short stories vs a novel? I had to see that for a myself…)
So I cracked open the pages of All the Lost Places (even though it’s a paperback copy, so there was really no “cracking” involved) and was transported into what is truly a masterpiece of a story.
*brain implodes*
Everyone was right. Amanda Dykes’ writing doesn’t just have “pizzazz”…it has spirit, life, an entire poem hidden in every sentence.
I know there are some people who prefer cut-and-dry writing who wouldn’t enjoy Dykes’ prose, but I am no such person, so I was swimming in the beauty of it all. Dykes made not only the heavenly setting but also the emotion and history and mystery of it all come to life in the most vibrant of colors, and I am simply impressed.
But the most beautiful? THE CHARACTERS. First of all, WE HAD A MALE MC. Y’ALL, THAT WAS AMAZING. I get so tired (if you haven’t noticed) of reading the same ol’ cabron-copy cookie-cutter female, so believe me when I say that Daniel was (1) the absolute best and (2) such a refresher. His character was so intriguing and simply a pleasure to read. He was well-written with an emotional journey, and at the same time, he was an admirable, relatable hero. Just all-around amazing, y’all. I need more male main characters (not just love interests) in Christian historical fiction/romance, please and thank you.
On that note, Sebastian was also a five-star hero, and I honestly could’ve read a whole book from his POV.
As if two phenomenal dudes wasn’t enough for this girl, Dykes gave me two equally wonderful heroines, and I could literally cry. Y’all. Vittoria and Marianna were what this genre, what this world needs, out of female characters these days. They were tender and sweet, headstrong and independent, compassionate and caring, genuine and authentic. I loved them. They weren’t at all like female POV characters—i.e., whiny, cliché, feminist-y, or inauthentic. They were real, and they did a fabulous job of supporting the main men, while also bringing their own flair and flavor to the story.
Plus the secondary characters (especially Massimo) were *chef’s kiss* bella, bella!
So, my only qualm with the entire novel actually has to do with my man Danny-boy. His arc felt incomplete. Like, it was amazing, on the fast-track to character developmental success, until the ending was wrapped up just a wee bit too quickly and his arc loosely knotted up. But otherwise, I can’t complain. This story was too mysterious and dark and profound and inspiring and immersive to have more than one minimal qualm. 😂
And y’all. This technically counts as dual-time, and let me just say...authors are upping their game. These last few dual-time novels I’ve read have been actually good, so unique, with each timeline equally interesting and woven together seamlessly—and this one is no exception! I fell in love with both Daniel’s journey and Sebastian’s life story and devoured every word in both timelines.
Speaking of devouring words...even though the story itself was kinda light and subtle in the faith and spirituality department, the author’s note literally made me tear up. It was...so beautiful and edifying and inspiring and enriching and gorgeous and I just…augh. I can’t. It was by far my favorite author’s note ever, and such a pleasure to read.
So...I did it, y’all. I solved the mystery of why everyone loves Amanda Dykes. And know I love her too.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 13, 2022
A baby boy is discovered by a man floating in a basket along the canals of Venice and he decides not to take him to the nearby orphanage. Instead he’s raised by a guild of five artisans, Pietro a glass blower, Valentina a lace maker, Giuseppe a gondolier, Dante a printer and Elena a gardener. Sebastian Trovato thinks he will never discover who he is and until he finds Mariana Fedele unconscious on Elena’s island.
All the Lost Places has a dual timeline, it’s set in Venice in the early 1800's and in 1900's.
Daniel Goodman has made mistakes in his life, a way of redeeming himself is by traveling to Venice for Mr. Wharton, to procure an original book and it's sketches. Here he meets Vittoria Bellini, she works in a bookshop and her uncle Antonio repairs rare and antique books. With Vittoria’s help, he navigates the streets and canals of Venice, he discovers who Sebastian Trovato is and why he didn’t finish his story.
I received a digital copy of All the Lost Place from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. Amanda Dykes skilfully writes a story about a man who is foundling, and him trying to find out who his parents are and another trying to right the wrongs of his past. An amazing story that combines faith, mystery, secrets, hope and the history of Venice to weave a narrative that will hold you captivated by it’s brilliance and use of words. Four and a half stars from me and I had to really concentrate reading this complicated novel.
All the Lost Places has a dual timeline, it’s set in Venice in the early 1800's and in 1900's.
Daniel Goodman has made mistakes in his life, a way of redeeming himself is by traveling to Venice for Mr. Wharton, to procure an original book and it's sketches. Here he meets Vittoria Bellini, she works in a bookshop and her uncle Antonio repairs rare and antique books. With Vittoria’s help, he navigates the streets and canals of Venice, he discovers who Sebastian Trovato is and why he didn’t finish his story.
I received a digital copy of All the Lost Place from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. Amanda Dykes skilfully writes a story about a man who is foundling, and him trying to find out who his parents are and another trying to right the wrongs of his past. An amazing story that combines faith, mystery, secrets, hope and the history of Venice to weave a narrative that will hold you captivated by it’s brilliance and use of words. Four and a half stars from me and I had to really concentrate reading this complicated novel.
September 15, 2022
Amanda Dykes will never fail to amaze me with her ability to spin ordinary words into extraordinary stories. I have yet to read another author that surpasses her craft at writing and touching my heart with deep and relatable themes. One of those themes was this question: Who am I? Who am I with a past behind me, a present in front of me, ands future ahead of me? Who am I when I feel lost and uncertain?
I think it’s impossible for Amanda to ever not get a five-star review from me so, without further ado, here’s to another five-star rating to another masterpiece.
“Remember—though it may feel as if it is, the story is not over yet.”
“And isn’t that the way of miracles? Something extraordinary because of the faithful ordinary?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of All the Lost Places. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
I think it’s impossible for Amanda to ever not get a five-star review from me so, without further ado, here’s to another five-star rating to another masterpiece.
“Remember—though it may feel as if it is, the story is not over yet.”
“And isn’t that the way of miracles? Something extraordinary because of the faithful ordinary?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of All the Lost Places. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
July 21, 2022
From Endorsement:
With the skill of a mosaic artist, Amanda Dykes transports readers to a floating city and gives them a tale pieced through history, echoes of fairy tales as the glue. In All the Lost Places, deep truths meet the longings of humanity. There, they whisper of hope, forgiveness, and a love so scandalous it can only be explained by grace. Luscious writing, authentic characters, and an ending that satisfies to the core of the spirit, All the Lost Places is another winner from Amanda Dykes.
With the skill of a mosaic artist, Amanda Dykes transports readers to a floating city and gives them a tale pieced through history, echoes of fairy tales as the glue. In All the Lost Places, deep truths meet the longings of humanity. There, they whisper of hope, forgiveness, and a love so scandalous it can only be explained by grace. Luscious writing, authentic characters, and an ending that satisfies to the core of the spirit, All the Lost Places is another winner from Amanda Dykes.
![Profile Image for Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1766269624i%2F169222098._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 31, 2024
This book was a hidden gem! I didn’t expect to love it, but I did! Okay, first off, her writing is very complex and at times, confusing. But it’s nonetheless beautiful writing. I did have to reread certain paragraphs to make sure I understood what was going on. 🤦🏼♀️😂 Anyway, the cover is stunning! I usually don’t read duel time periods just because they are confusing to me and I had a hard time getting drawn into the story so yeah. 🤷🏼♀️ But this book was different. I admit the first few chapters, I was very confused, but don’t give up! Daniel is an interesting character. At first, I wasn’t sure what I thought of him, but he quickly grew on me. Sebastien was too. His life was interesting as well. Have five people taking care of him, raising him and living with them at different times throughout the year. Elena was my favorite of the five. Vittoria was a character…she was funny, headstrong and determined! I love her! 😂 Vittoria and Daniel brought together because of a book…awesome! 😁 They fit so well together! I loved it! *happy sigh* I do have to say that there are a lot of characters in this book and it can be confusing at times. I didn’t really care for Massimo. Ooh, Sebastien and Mariana were so perfect for each other. *happy sigh* Their kiss was perfect! Not cringy or weird…just perfect. Wow! That ending with Sebastien and Mariana! I had tears in my eyes! Beautifully heartbreaking! Beautiful, beautiful story! I’m buying a copy of my own! I do wish there was more of a clear Christian aspect. Like it’s mentioned, but never really explained and explored. The gospel message isn’t clearly presented in this book so that was disappointing. But overall, this book is absolutely beautiful and will be stuck with me for a while! I absolutely recommend! 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quotes I loved: (And there’s a lot of them 😂)
💦 “That is because you belong to us, and we belong to you— always. You came to us on a dark night, and we didn't know, then, how much we needed you. Each and every one of us. So when you feel lost, my love... remember—you are found."
💦 “There is nothing like the smell of books, no?"
💦 “And... I have an idea." This last bit said rather conspiratorially.
"Should I be afraid of this idea?"
"There is only one way to find out, Signor Train. Meet me tomorrow morning if you can."
💦 “It is a memento of our mortality, my son. To help us make every moment matter, for our time here is limited. It is a gift—-time is what we have been given. Whatever else our lot—whatever our legacy, our history, our burdens to bear—we have all been given time. And we must spend it well, spend it like it is gold, or better."
💦 “Someone bent on getting rid of me, I'd say. A ... wild-goose chase."
She responded with a laugh that had a ring all its own. "I enjoy the chasing of geese." I could well believe it.
💦 “The Book of Waters," she continued, "it has always been my favorite. It seemed beautiful to me that, in a world full of books, there is still a story that has no ending. It makes it feel like ..." She twirled her hand in the air, looking for the words. "Like anything is possible."
💦 He pulled in a sip of his coffee, watching me the whole time. I did likewise and jolted at the extreme heat of the liquid. When we both set down our coffee cups in their saucers, I nearly sputtered when I saw that his was empty. From that one single, long swig.
"How did you do that?" I said, reclaiming composure.
The man looked at the cup and shrugged. "Good coffee needs no delay," he said. "I learned long ago that when you have something good in hand, it is folly to delay without reason."
💦 “Your thoughts are most welcome, Vittoria. Whenever you wish to share them."
💦 And in the dark, in this world unto itself, his hand reached out…and found a home in hers.
💦 This was Mariana. She brought life, she brought beauty, she filled the lost places with both.
Quotes I loved: (And there’s a lot of them 😂)
💦 “That is because you belong to us, and we belong to you— always. You came to us on a dark night, and we didn't know, then, how much we needed you. Each and every one of us. So when you feel lost, my love... remember—you are found."
💦 “There is nothing like the smell of books, no?"
💦 “And... I have an idea." This last bit said rather conspiratorially.
"Should I be afraid of this idea?"
"There is only one way to find out, Signor Train. Meet me tomorrow morning if you can."
💦 “It is a memento of our mortality, my son. To help us make every moment matter, for our time here is limited. It is a gift—-time is what we have been given. Whatever else our lot—whatever our legacy, our history, our burdens to bear—we have all been given time. And we must spend it well, spend it like it is gold, or better."
💦 “Someone bent on getting rid of me, I'd say. A ... wild-goose chase."
She responded with a laugh that had a ring all its own. "I enjoy the chasing of geese." I could well believe it.
💦 “The Book of Waters," she continued, "it has always been my favorite. It seemed beautiful to me that, in a world full of books, there is still a story that has no ending. It makes it feel like ..." She twirled her hand in the air, looking for the words. "Like anything is possible."
💦 He pulled in a sip of his coffee, watching me the whole time. I did likewise and jolted at the extreme heat of the liquid. When we both set down our coffee cups in their saucers, I nearly sputtered when I saw that his was empty. From that one single, long swig.
"How did you do that?" I said, reclaiming composure.
The man looked at the cup and shrugged. "Good coffee needs no delay," he said. "I learned long ago that when you have something good in hand, it is folly to delay without reason."
💦 “Your thoughts are most welcome, Vittoria. Whenever you wish to share them."
💦 And in the dark, in this world unto itself, his hand reached out…and found a home in hers.
💦 This was Mariana. She brought life, she brought beauty, she filled the lost places with both.
January 17, 2023
Beautiful. I’ve come to expect that from Amanda Dykes, but it’s lovely to experience it once again. This is the only novel I’ve read that begins at the Creation, and that lyrical, majestic prologue sets the tone for the book. Both storylines were engaging—the more historical one was harder to follow than the more recent one, but that actually contributed to the reading experience because I was piecing together the history at the same time the characters were.
Daniel’s experience of aphantasia as an artist was fascinating and very well written. It’s not a subject I’ve heard much about, and Amanda clearly did her research, as evidenced by her author’s notes. Those notes were a special blessing and encouragement to me, as her heart behind the story really shone through to say that no one who has experienced loss is alone. And loss is not the end. We may not be able to go back to the way things were, but the way things are is where God is working now. I also loved the beautiful treatment of Venice and how true history mingled with story in the most interwoven of ways. I did a little reading on Venice afterward and enjoyed the feeling of having already “met” so much of the city. The romance, gentle and subtle as it was, was perfect—Daniel and Vittoria were a great combination. And the bookshop—any book about books is well on the way to being a favorite!
My one objection is something I knew to expect going into the story, and it is not something specific to Amanda Dykes, so I’ll touch on it only briefly. I don’t agree with the growing practice among Christian writers of silently equating Catholicism with the biblical gospel. This is not to say that I object to books with Catholic characters or that I disagreed with any of the explicit teaching in this particular novel. I simply don’t find it accurate that the Catholicism of Venice would uphold the grace-centered message of this book and many other Christian novels, given that the Council of Trent placed a curse on anyone who believes Christ’s righteousness alone is enough for salvation. Please do not take this as an opening for debate. It is simply my personal belief based on my own research and biblical convictions.
Once again, Amanda Dykes has delivered a stunning story that builds slowly and gently to its climax—a story not without sadness but also filled with hope. I eagerly await her next book.
Daniel’s experience of aphantasia as an artist was fascinating and very well written. It’s not a subject I’ve heard much about, and Amanda clearly did her research, as evidenced by her author’s notes. Those notes were a special blessing and encouragement to me, as her heart behind the story really shone through to say that no one who has experienced loss is alone. And loss is not the end. We may not be able to go back to the way things were, but the way things are is where God is working now. I also loved the beautiful treatment of Venice and how true history mingled with story in the most interwoven of ways. I did a little reading on Venice afterward and enjoyed the feeling of having already “met” so much of the city. The romance, gentle and subtle as it was, was perfect—Daniel and Vittoria were a great combination. And the bookshop—any book about books is well on the way to being a favorite!
My one objection is something I knew to expect going into the story, and it is not something specific to Amanda Dykes, so I’ll touch on it only briefly. I don’t agree with the growing practice among Christian writers of silently equating Catholicism with the biblical gospel. This is not to say that I object to books with Catholic characters or that I disagreed with any of the explicit teaching in this particular novel. I simply don’t find it accurate that the Catholicism of Venice would uphold the grace-centered message of this book and many other Christian novels, given that the Council of Trent placed a curse on anyone who believes Christ’s righteousness alone is enough for salvation. Please do not take this as an opening for debate. It is simply my personal belief based on my own research and biblical convictions.
Once again, Amanda Dykes has delivered a stunning story that builds slowly and gently to its climax—a story not without sadness but also filled with hope. I eagerly await her next book.
December 1, 2022
blog review
https://veganbookblogger.wordpress.co...
This book deserves many more than five stars.
I am not sure I have ever read a book quite like this one before.
Some books come into your life, are read and quickly forgotten.
Not so with this one It will be remembered by myself and many other readers for quite some time.
I feel spiritually fulfilled after reading this.
The descriptions are so vivid that I feel as though I was experiencing this with all the characters in the time periods portrayed.
The book is a real gem, the words are clear, concise and fluid.
I am really looking forward to reading more by this author.
I was given a complimentary copy by Interviews and Reviews and Bethany House Publishers. All opinions expressed are my own.
https://veganbookblogger.wordpress.co...
This book deserves many more than five stars.
I am not sure I have ever read a book quite like this one before.
Some books come into your life, are read and quickly forgotten.
Not so with this one It will be remembered by myself and many other readers for quite some time.
I feel spiritually fulfilled after reading this.
The descriptions are so vivid that I feel as though I was experiencing this with all the characters in the time periods portrayed.
The book is a real gem, the words are clear, concise and fluid.
I am really looking forward to reading more by this author.
I was given a complimentary copy by Interviews and Reviews and Bethany House Publishers. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 19, 2023
Wow, wow, wow!!
I’ve spent days trying to sum up all my feelings about this stunning masterpiece, but keep coming up short. 🥲
I’ve loved everything from Amanda Dykes, and this book was no exception! Every page was filled with rich & lyrical prose and beautiful & haunting themes. I savoured every moment!
Daniel & Vitoria and Sebastian & Mariana have my heart. Robert Browning the owl was a hoot, haha. And the Venetian setting was *chef’s kiss*
Perhaps best of all though was the themes exploring the question of “who am I?” & the ache of perfectionism of trying to right past wrongs. As someone who has felt lost & out of place most of her life, I felt so seen by this book. And cried through a good portion of it. 😭
This book made me an emotional wreck & touched my heart so deeply. It’s a powerful & beautiful reminder that our story isn’t finished yet—no matter how much we may think it is.
Also, I discovered my new favourite word—Trovato. It means “found” & I have it on a sticky note on my wall. 💛
I’ve spent days trying to sum up all my feelings about this stunning masterpiece, but keep coming up short. 🥲
I’ve loved everything from Amanda Dykes, and this book was no exception! Every page was filled with rich & lyrical prose and beautiful & haunting themes. I savoured every moment!
Daniel & Vitoria and Sebastian & Mariana have my heart. Robert Browning the owl was a hoot, haha. And the Venetian setting was *chef’s kiss*
Perhaps best of all though was the themes exploring the question of “who am I?” & the ache of perfectionism of trying to right past wrongs. As someone who has felt lost & out of place most of her life, I felt so seen by this book. And cried through a good portion of it. 😭
This book made me an emotional wreck & touched my heart so deeply. It’s a powerful & beautiful reminder that our story isn’t finished yet—no matter how much we may think it is.
Also, I discovered my new favourite word—Trovato. It means “found” & I have it on a sticky note on my wall. 💛
December 18, 2022
Exceptional, exquisite, thought provoking, poetic.... there are not enough positive words to describe this beautifully written dual time novel. The author has once again captivated me with the scenes in her latest book.
A mysterious unfinished *Book of Waters* reaches through time to connect two men in an unexpected way. Sebastien in 1807 and Daniel in 1904 are both searching for the meaning of their own lives, which makes the reader think about their own worth. The answer to the age old question of *who can love me* can be found in the grace of God and the love He has for all in the sacrifice of Christ...His own Son.
An overarching theme is Hope.
“Life had taught them hope was a dangerous and fragile thing...Faith sang a different song, hope was necessary as breath and so strong that it carried its own heartbeat.”
From a mosaic artist: “So I come, in the dark, to piece together things of hope from things of destruction.”
“God is not bound by the way things used to be. There is hope in that.”
From the fascinating origins of Venice, California to the breathtaking scenes of an age old Venice,
Italy, this is a well-crafted story that should not be missed.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
A mysterious unfinished *Book of Waters* reaches through time to connect two men in an unexpected way. Sebastien in 1807 and Daniel in 1904 are both searching for the meaning of their own lives, which makes the reader think about their own worth. The answer to the age old question of *who can love me* can be found in the grace of God and the love He has for all in the sacrifice of Christ...His own Son.
An overarching theme is Hope.
“Life had taught them hope was a dangerous and fragile thing...Faith sang a different song, hope was necessary as breath and so strong that it carried its own heartbeat.”
From a mosaic artist: “So I come, in the dark, to piece together things of hope from things of destruction.”
“God is not bound by the way things used to be. There is hope in that.”
From the fascinating origins of Venice, California to the breathtaking scenes of an age old Venice,
Italy, this is a well-crafted story that should not be missed.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
February 26, 2023
4.5/5
What an incredible, exquisitely written story! Reading this was like being bathed in sunlight during golden hour. The pacing through the second half wasn't my favourite but all in all, this story and every character captured my heart! I think it's safe to say Amanda Dykes is my favourite Christian fiction author (excluding Biblical fiction).
Ranking Amanda Dykes' books:
1. Yours is the Night (5/5... the characters. my absolute favs.)
2. All the Lost Places (4.5/5... I've never wanted to visit Venice as much as I now do)
3. Whose Waves These Are (4/5... this one made me cry more than her others!)
4. Set the Stars Alight (initially gave it 5 stars, upon reflection/time away from the story it's more a 4 star read for me as I felt it was slower-paced than even I like, and I like my slow character-driven books)
What an incredible, exquisitely written story! Reading this was like being bathed in sunlight during golden hour. The pacing through the second half wasn't my favourite but all in all, this story and every character captured my heart! I think it's safe to say Amanda Dykes is my favourite Christian fiction author (excluding Biblical fiction).
Ranking Amanda Dykes' books:
1. Yours is the Night (5/5... the characters. my absolute favs.)
2. All the Lost Places (4.5/5... I've never wanted to visit Venice as much as I now do)
3. Whose Waves These Are (4/5... this one made me cry more than her others!)
4. Set the Stars Alight (initially gave it 5 stars, upon reflection/time away from the story it's more a 4 star read for me as I felt it was slower-paced than even I like, and I like my slow character-driven books)
December 7, 2022
All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes is a dual-timeline historical novel set in Venice during the early 1800s and the early 1900s. This beautifully written story involves a complex mystery, some romance, and love for the beautiful city of Venice.
Story Recap:
1806 A basket with a baby inside is found floating down a Venitian canal. Fisherman Guiseppe pulls the baby from the murky canal and starts to take him to the local orphanage. On the way, he changes his mind and decides to keep him and he takes him to his guild to help raise the baby. Guiseppe the fisherman, Pietro, the glassblower, Elena, the gardener, Dante, the printer, and Valentina, the lace maker, all decide to raise the baby together. They named him Sebastien Trovato, and each member of the guild train him in their perspective careers.
1907 Daniel Goodman needs to redeem himself for the trouble he’s been in. Fresh out of prison, and working in a cannery in San Francisco, he makes just enough money to repay his debts. When he finds out his mother is in financial trouble, he needs to make more money, so he takes on a job to travel to Venice to obtain a rare book and to sketch the city for a San Fransisco developer who wants to replicate the canals and beauty of Venice.
My Thoughts:
This is the story of two men, Sebastian who is searching for his parents and wants to know why he was left in a basket, and Daniel, who wants to make up for the sins of his past.
This book has everything I want in a story, I loved both mysteries, and they do intersect eventually. Daniel was such a great character. He needs to atone for the mistakes he made when he was young and needs to help his mother before she loses her house. His dedication to his mother is heartwarming as is his love of books.
Sebastian had an unusual and loving upbringing with the guild acting as his parents. But, he always wondered why he doesn’t have just one mother like his friends growing up. When he saves a young woman who washed up on his island, she helps him uncover the mysteries of his origin.
The star of this book is Venice. The author wrote lovingly about the history, and the people of Venice, but it never felt overdone, or too much. In each timeline, the characters are trying to solve a mystery and we get to follow them along the roads, bridges, and canals as they search for clues. We get little snippets of Venitian history woven into the beautiful descriptions as we follow Sebastian and Daniel on their individual quests.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend All the Lost Places to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Story Recap:
1806 A basket with a baby inside is found floating down a Venitian canal. Fisherman Guiseppe pulls the baby from the murky canal and starts to take him to the local orphanage. On the way, he changes his mind and decides to keep him and he takes him to his guild to help raise the baby. Guiseppe the fisherman, Pietro, the glassblower, Elena, the gardener, Dante, the printer, and Valentina, the lace maker, all decide to raise the baby together. They named him Sebastien Trovato, and each member of the guild train him in their perspective careers.
1907 Daniel Goodman needs to redeem himself for the trouble he’s been in. Fresh out of prison, and working in a cannery in San Francisco, he makes just enough money to repay his debts. When he finds out his mother is in financial trouble, he needs to make more money, so he takes on a job to travel to Venice to obtain a rare book and to sketch the city for a San Fransisco developer who wants to replicate the canals and beauty of Venice.
My Thoughts:
This is the story of two men, Sebastian who is searching for his parents and wants to know why he was left in a basket, and Daniel, who wants to make up for the sins of his past.
This book has everything I want in a story, I loved both mysteries, and they do intersect eventually. Daniel was such a great character. He needs to atone for the mistakes he made when he was young and needs to help his mother before she loses her house. His dedication to his mother is heartwarming as is his love of books.
Sebastian had an unusual and loving upbringing with the guild acting as his parents. But, he always wondered why he doesn’t have just one mother like his friends growing up. When he saves a young woman who washed up on his island, she helps him uncover the mysteries of his origin.
The star of this book is Venice. The author wrote lovingly about the history, and the people of Venice, but it never felt overdone, or too much. In each timeline, the characters are trying to solve a mystery and we get to follow them along the roads, bridges, and canals as they search for clues. We get little snippets of Venitian history woven into the beautiful descriptions as we follow Sebastian and Daniel on their individual quests.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend All the Lost Places to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 18, 2022
Dykes’s pen is fused with magic and poetry. Every word a gentle wave building into the splendor that is All the Lost Places where struggles for identity and a place to belong find hope between the pages of a timeless story.
December 7, 2022
What can I say about a masterpiece, that the name doesn't already imply?
The fact remained that in the face of such absolute devastation and loss, when the living story resounded only in defeat, he dug instead for the tiniest slip of hope. And in doing so, hope became . . . purpose.
I have yet to meet an author who can layer so many beautiful truths into a work of art as Amanda does in her stories. All the Lost Places is a stunning masterpiece, a journey of discovering one's purpose and place in life.
I struggle to find the words to properly relate how I felt reading this book. Booklist's starred review describes best my reading experience with the words, "hushed awe". This is a story of introspection, one so spellbinding you feel as though the words are whispered to you and any movement or sound will ruin the moment.
At some point, the story stopped being about merely Daniel and his atonements, or Sebastian and his wrestling of identity. I can't explain it, but I felt the author in this story, between the pages of mosaics and monks - also something I can't explain unless you've read the story yourself.
Amanda Dykes evokes deep emotions with her symbolic lyricism and ordinary yet magical characters. I didn't want the story to end, yet I couldn't help but read on. This is romantic literary prose at its best. Everything about this novel - the characters that warm your heart, the intriguing Venice, the introspecting journey, all of it - resonated with me, and I can never recommend this book or this author enough.
a few favourite quotes ✨
(because I can't share the whole novel in a review!)
Though life had taught them hope was a dangerous and fragile thing . . . Faith sang a different song: hope was as necessary as breath, and so strong that it carried its own heartbeat.
"I search my whole life for something, and you give it to me in an entirely different form, far richer and better than I could have imagined. I was looking for a ring . . . and you gave me the moon."
The fact remained that in the face of such absolute devastation and loss, when the living story resounded only in defeat, he dug instead for the tiniest slip of hope. And in doing so, hope became . . . purpose.
I have yet to meet an author who can layer so many beautiful truths into a work of art as Amanda does in her stories. All the Lost Places is a stunning masterpiece, a journey of discovering one's purpose and place in life.
I struggle to find the words to properly relate how I felt reading this book. Booklist's starred review describes best my reading experience with the words, "hushed awe". This is a story of introspection, one so spellbinding you feel as though the words are whispered to you and any movement or sound will ruin the moment.
At some point, the story stopped being about merely Daniel and his atonements, or Sebastian and his wrestling of identity. I can't explain it, but I felt the author in this story, between the pages of mosaics and monks - also something I can't explain unless you've read the story yourself.
Amanda Dykes evokes deep emotions with her symbolic lyricism and ordinary yet magical characters. I didn't want the story to end, yet I couldn't help but read on. This is romantic literary prose at its best. Everything about this novel - the characters that warm your heart, the intriguing Venice, the introspecting journey, all of it - resonated with me, and I can never recommend this book or this author enough.
a few favourite quotes ✨
(because I can't share the whole novel in a review!)
Though life had taught them hope was a dangerous and fragile thing . . . Faith sang a different song: hope was as necessary as breath, and so strong that it carried its own heartbeat.
"I search my whole life for something, and you give it to me in an entirely different form, far richer and better than I could have imagined. I was looking for a ring . . . and you gave me the moon."
February 22, 2024
Wow. This book was a very beautiful from start to finish. I’m a fast reader (especially where fiction is concerned!) but I had to take my time with this one, mulling over the stories. There was SO much there and it was a lovely journey. It could be classified as dual timeline, but I think maybe the better wording would be “a story within a story.”
I am afraid I could go on and on about my favorite things, but In doing so would likely accidentally drop spoilers. Let’s just say, I loved the characters—Daniel and Vittoria, the guild, Sabastian, Mariana. I loved the family bonds, the history—though there’s a lot of fiction added to it, it’s still there—,Venice, and the mysteries. I also loved the Book of Waters and how water itself seemed woven through the entire tale. As in her story, “Set the Stars Alight”, there was some almost fairy tale undertones in this book. Amanda Dykes has such a lovely lyrical writing style!
So why not a 5⭐️? One of the books theme is lost things found. There were some extremely beautiful and emotional moments where I waited with baited breath for the reminder of the eternal, biblical truth: Jesus Christ the Savior died to rescue the lost. There were some hints, but never a crucial/clear moment. The characters (especially Daniel) seemed so close to understanding the Gospel, but then the story moved on as if that were an afterthought. The vagueness was very disappointing to me. If it was a secular book, I’d not comment on this, but it’s a Christian fiction book. Christ Jesus is the foundation, cornerstone, and center of our faith. He is everything ❤️
All the Lost Places was still a very good story. There were many reminders that God can use even bad situations for good. There were other solid lessons I personally pulled from it, as well, but you’ll have to read it to find them 😉. I enjoyed the journey and, though I wish a clear salvation message had been present, would likely read it again.
I am afraid I could go on and on about my favorite things, but In doing so would likely accidentally drop spoilers. Let’s just say, I loved the characters—Daniel and Vittoria, the guild, Sabastian, Mariana. I loved the family bonds, the history—though there’s a lot of fiction added to it, it’s still there—,Venice, and the mysteries. I also loved the Book of Waters and how water itself seemed woven through the entire tale. As in her story, “Set the Stars Alight”, there was some almost fairy tale undertones in this book. Amanda Dykes has such a lovely lyrical writing style!
So why not a 5⭐️? One of the books theme is lost things found. There were some extremely beautiful and emotional moments where I waited with baited breath for the reminder of the eternal, biblical truth: Jesus Christ the Savior died to rescue the lost. There were some hints, but never a crucial/clear moment. The characters (especially Daniel) seemed so close to understanding the Gospel, but then the story moved on as if that were an afterthought. The vagueness was very disappointing to me. If it was a secular book, I’d not comment on this, but it’s a Christian fiction book. Christ Jesus is the foundation, cornerstone, and center of our faith. He is everything ❤️
All the Lost Places was still a very good story. There were many reminders that God can use even bad situations for good. There were other solid lessons I personally pulled from it, as well, but you’ll have to read it to find them 😉. I enjoyed the journey and, though I wish a clear salvation message had been present, would likely read it again.
October 4, 2022
"And isn’t that the way of miracles? Something extraordinary because of the faithful ordinary."
There are so many beautiful layers in this story. I love how Amanda weaves truth into the fabric of her story and everything points to it. She is a stunning example of an author who can use truth in an allegorical way, but then leaves no questions about what it is she's referring to - she straight out tells you, and I appreciate her being clear where it really matters.
Because the vagueness and not mystery as much as mystique in the rest of the story kept me as a reader at a distance and made it difficult for me to care or get invested for large swaths of the book. Ultimately, I loved the characters and the general plot, but the setting was not something I came into the book caring about and all the constant reminders of secrecy of the place made me feel unwelcome and care about it even less than when I started. There were a lot of concepts connected to the culture that were foreign to me and for which I needed a less purple explanation to understand everything as it unfolded.
I think lovers of the setting would have a very deep appreciation for this book, and lovers of truth can enjoy it, but it's not necessarily easily accessible for every reader. Nonetheless, I can appreciate the author's skill with character, plot, weaving of the message, and immersing in a setting.
I received this book from the publisher but a positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
There are so many beautiful layers in this story. I love how Amanda weaves truth into the fabric of her story and everything points to it. She is a stunning example of an author who can use truth in an allegorical way, but then leaves no questions about what it is she's referring to - she straight out tells you, and I appreciate her being clear where it really matters.
Because the vagueness and not mystery as much as mystique in the rest of the story kept me as a reader at a distance and made it difficult for me to care or get invested for large swaths of the book. Ultimately, I loved the characters and the general plot, but the setting was not something I came into the book caring about and all the constant reminders of secrecy of the place made me feel unwelcome and care about it even less than when I started. There were a lot of concepts connected to the culture that were foreign to me and for which I needed a less purple explanation to understand everything as it unfolded.
I think lovers of the setting would have a very deep appreciation for this book, and lovers of truth can enjoy it, but it's not necessarily easily accessible for every reader. Nonetheless, I can appreciate the author's skill with character, plot, weaving of the message, and immersing in a setting.
I received this book from the publisher but a positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
December 27, 2022
I struggled to fall into this one, despite the enchanting writing style and mystery bridging the two timelines.
April 7, 2023
A gorgeous tapestry of words that sing like the lyrics of a song… Every line is like a poem.
December 18, 2022
This is my first book by Amanda and way she spins stories is like a relaxing piece on the piano. It slowly builds and develops into something that makes you feel found and a part of something bigger.
Readers will need to savor each chapter and get those annotation tabs, or you will be dogearing those pages. If you are like me, you will want to remember all the ways she reminds us that God is with us; yes, even in our lost places.
All The Lost Places is told from two different perspectives from different timelines. It took me a few chapters to get acquainted with the characters, but one my head caught up, I enjoyed the poetic prose and the themes of the story. There are elements of redemption, identity, love, patriotism, and so much more.
Read if you want:
🎭 Christian Fiction
🎭 Historical Fiction
🎭 Venetian Canals
🎭 Found Family
🎭 Second Chances
Readers will need to savor each chapter and get those annotation tabs, or you will be dogearing those pages. If you are like me, you will want to remember all the ways she reminds us that God is with us; yes, even in our lost places.
All The Lost Places is told from two different perspectives from different timelines. It took me a few chapters to get acquainted with the characters, but one my head caught up, I enjoyed the poetic prose and the themes of the story. There are elements of redemption, identity, love, patriotism, and so much more.
Read if you want:
🎭 Christian Fiction
🎭 Historical Fiction
🎭 Venetian Canals
🎭 Found Family
🎭 Second Chances
December 5, 2022
All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes exceeded my expectations and rates as one of the best novels I’ve read in 2022. My favorite books feature characters that I connect to in some way, and I immediately identified with Daniel. This fallen son’s emotions felt real and raw as he grappled with shame and a need to atone for his past. The story dove deep into the darkness of condemnation and searched for life-giving truth while avoiding platitudes. Daniel’s redemption journey takes time but has a wonderful ending.
All the Lost Places is a book for those who ask hard, but worthy questions: Who am I? How can I atone for past wrongs? Where can I find peace? The themes of the novel call out truth to any Christian believer, but especially for the broken and the searching. I marked more than thirty quotes as I read, and I appreciated that the story held themes less commonly explored in Christian fiction.
In addition to the above, Amanda Dykes’ poetic prose and clever writing style made All the Lost Places a delight to read. This character-driven novel had a smartly paced plot that held my attention from beginning to end. The author freshened the popular dual timeline format by using the translation of a book to create the earlier timeline.
I recommend All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes to readers who enjoy historical fiction with great depth and poignant themes. This novel lingers with me, and I know I’ll return to it in the future.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
All the Lost Places is a book for those who ask hard, but worthy questions: Who am I? How can I atone for past wrongs? Where can I find peace? The themes of the novel call out truth to any Christian believer, but especially for the broken and the searching. I marked more than thirty quotes as I read, and I appreciated that the story held themes less commonly explored in Christian fiction.
In addition to the above, Amanda Dykes’ poetic prose and clever writing style made All the Lost Places a delight to read. This character-driven novel had a smartly paced plot that held my attention from beginning to end. The author freshened the popular dual timeline format by using the translation of a book to create the earlier timeline.
I recommend All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes to readers who enjoy historical fiction with great depth and poignant themes. This novel lingers with me, and I know I’ll return to it in the future.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
September 10, 2023
Writing a review for an Amanda Dykes book is so challenging. There aren't enough words to properly covey the depth and impact her stories hold, but all I know is that each time I read her light-filled prose, I walk away changed.
This story was breathtaking. So incredibly beautiful in its imagery and detail. So tangible and lifelike, I felt like I was actually in Venezia.
Though it took me a few chapters to get a feel for the story, unsure of where it was going and how to process the plot, it soon clicked and I was swept away in a world of mystery, magic, and wonder.
All the Lost Places has the classic feel of all of Amanda’s stories while still remaining unique. The storyline is as intricate as the canals of Venice, as far reaching as the famous Marangona’s chime.
And her characters, the true heart of all her stories, never fail to feel like old friends. From Sebastian and Mariana to Daniel and Vittoria… and not to mention all the guild members. I love them all!
And the city of Venezia which has a life of its own, feeling like a character in itself with hidden rooms, passageways, and secrets galore! And all the elements of Faith woven in as if they were the foundational stones themselves.
Overall, this story is one to be treasured. To drink in and take slow. I know I’ll be revisiting this one again in the years to come.
Content:
A fight scene
No language
So much beauty and depth and heart
Sweet romance
This story was breathtaking. So incredibly beautiful in its imagery and detail. So tangible and lifelike, I felt like I was actually in Venezia.
Though it took me a few chapters to get a feel for the story, unsure of where it was going and how to process the plot, it soon clicked and I was swept away in a world of mystery, magic, and wonder.
All the Lost Places has the classic feel of all of Amanda’s stories while still remaining unique. The storyline is as intricate as the canals of Venice, as far reaching as the famous Marangona’s chime.
And her characters, the true heart of all her stories, never fail to feel like old friends. From Sebastian and Mariana to Daniel and Vittoria… and not to mention all the guild members. I love them all!
And the city of Venezia which has a life of its own, feeling like a character in itself with hidden rooms, passageways, and secrets galore! And all the elements of Faith woven in as if they were the foundational stones themselves.
Overall, this story is one to be treasured. To drink in and take slow. I know I’ll be revisiting this one again in the years to come.
Content:
A fight scene
No language
So much beauty and depth and heart
Sweet romance
May 30, 2023
I…have mixed feelings on this book…😅🫣 The first chapter had me hooked. But once it switched to the 1800s timeline, I had a very hard time following it. The 1900s timeline with Daniel I liked a lot better. While I didn’t necessarily love him as a character, his side was more interesting to me and was easier to understand. The 1800s side with Sebastien felt more like I was reading a classic almost. And while some people probably liked this aspect, it didn’t work for me because every time it switched it took me out of the story. It felt too meandering for me and half the time I didn’t know what was going on. Some parts I would reread but still be confused…and maybe that’s just me; I am blonde after all💁🏼♀️🤪 I did like the way it all came together in the end. I also really liked the epilogue (which was from Daniel’a pov so that’s probably why😅) if it had all been in 1904, I would have given it 4 stars.
December 20, 2022
How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time and that is exactly how you read All the Lost Places so you can savor and digest each bite before moving on. I’m such a fan of this author as she brings such grace and dignity to her stories by stitching the dual timeline together with invisible threads of connection that cumulate into an interesting and amazing conclusion. I love the visuality in the words she pens and being taken into sights and sounds you will never experience. You will be immersed and won’t want to leave as the characters are brought to life and you are left thinking about them. Beautifully told with imaginary, faith, and love. Not just romantic love but a sons love for his mother as he seeks forgiveness. A beautiful example of how God directs our footsteps and how lives are connected. All I can say is please add this to your must read list as you will not be disappointed. Definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher/author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
January 17, 2023
DNF'd at 40%
I have only heard amazing things about this book, so I was excited to give it a try. Unfortunately, I don't think that this book is for me.
While it was a well written book, the story moved extremely slowly. I failed to feel a connection to any of the characters, and there seemed to be no real sense of urgency or spark of excitement in Daniel's search for the book he was sent to Venice to find.
Maybe one day I'll give this book a try again, but for now, it is time for me to be done and move on.
I have only heard amazing things about this book, so I was excited to give it a try. Unfortunately, I don't think that this book is for me.
While it was a well written book, the story moved extremely slowly. I failed to feel a connection to any of the characters, and there seemed to be no real sense of urgency or spark of excitement in Daniel's search for the book he was sent to Venice to find.
Maybe one day I'll give this book a try again, but for now, it is time for me to be done and move on.
November 22, 2023
The characters are so well done! So deep and interesting and... alive. I ached and rejoiced with them.
The prose is also beautiful! It's is like living, flowing, poetry.
She's also slipped so much history into the pages! I've learned so much about Venice and its history.
I had no idea how she'd tie everything together in time for the end, but she did!
I'd love to read more from this author!
The prose is also beautiful! It's is like living, flowing, poetry.
She's also slipped so much history into the pages! I've learned so much about Venice and its history.
I had no idea how she'd tie everything together in time for the end, but she did!
I'd love to read more from this author!
October 7, 2023
This book is a true masterpiece. Thank you so much, Jordyn, for getting this for me!!! I loved it sm 🥰
July 9, 2023
I enjoyed the book; I really did. But while all of the other Dykes books have left me speechless, this one just...fell flat. I think the whimsy and beauty of Venice was supposed to make the book magical, but it was honestly just very very confusing, and the prose was mixed up with the personal reflections and dialog so much that it just was very confusing and distracting, in my opinion. Maybe it just wasn't the book for me to read at the time.
Definitely not going to keep me from reading the next book she publishes, tho :)
Definitely not going to keep me from reading the next book she publishes, tho :)
December 31, 2022
Another achingly beautiful story from Amanda Dykes. This book is full of beauty and hope and such lyrical writing. This is why she’s a favorite author!
June 9, 2024
My favorite thing about this book was Vittoria Bellini.
“What is it you’ve brought with you this time?”
“This time? You ask as if I always have something.” Her face was so open and curious, it delighted me that she didn’t realize that every time I’d encountered her, she carried adventure in some form.
“Books in a crate, coffee in a box on a boat, inventory in a wheelbarrow— you transport universes and deliver hope, Vittoria.”
“What is it you’ve brought with you this time?”
“This time? You ask as if I always have something.” Her face was so open and curious, it delighted me that she didn’t realize that every time I’d encountered her, she carried adventure in some form.
“Books in a crate, coffee in a box on a boat, inventory in a wheelbarrow— you transport universes and deliver hope, Vittoria.”
January 1, 2023
Oh my goodness. How can anyone put into words how absolutely beautiful this story is? How can I use my limited vocabulary to express the way it dives down into the depths of your soul, seeking an elusive treasure, and at last finds something tucked away – a ‘something’ which you didn’t even know was there, waiting to be found by just exactly the story this was?
I just now turned the final page of this truly exquisite novel, and I’m typing this review while still wiping away tears at the ending. Not because it was sad but rather because it was perfect and messy and intricate and just so beautiful. And – mainly – because it stirred my heart unlike few books I’ve read. Amanda Dykes is an author who can spin gold out of words, who can take the bones of a story and turn it into a painting. The dual narrative of this story – as in others she has written – is woven so intentionally that it is impossible to separate the two from one another. The inevitable discoveries of who (gasp!) and what (gasp!) and where (gasp!) and how (gasp!) the two timelines are connected in All The Lost Places left me both deliciously stunned and positively delighted right down to my toes.
Not to mention the author’s poetic voice that has me reading out loud just to slow down and savor each carefully placed word. Sentences like:
"There was shadow and song in every stone."
or
"The place dripped in gold and history."
or
"Never had the connection between them been stronger – and never had the distance between them been so great."
Blissful sigh. Aren’t they just so pretty?
And then there is the heartbeat of All the Lost Places itself – the theme that curves through the story like Venice’s famed waterways. “Empty places… are not always lost places.” And, conversely, lost places are not always empty places. Brokenness can give way to beauty when in the hands of an Artist. The characters in this book are each a little (or a lot) broken in one way or another (or several), and our respective heroes in each timeline are seeking (whether they realize it or not) to be found and to find their place in history’s story. The way their stories intersect is not something I will soon forget – not only the joy of the discovery of it but of what it did to my own heart.
Bottom Line: All the Lost Places is exquisite in every way – from its vivid characters that set up camp in your heart to the lyrical prose and the healing message of redemption and restoration. Of beauty from ashes. Of art from brokenness. Of family and books and story… and, of course, Venice. I want to go back and start reading it all over again as one who hasn’t read it yet – such treasure on these pages! Take heart, dear readers: “Courage keep and hope beget, the story is not finished yet.”
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I just now turned the final page of this truly exquisite novel, and I’m typing this review while still wiping away tears at the ending. Not because it was sad but rather because it was perfect and messy and intricate and just so beautiful. And – mainly – because it stirred my heart unlike few books I’ve read. Amanda Dykes is an author who can spin gold out of words, who can take the bones of a story and turn it into a painting. The dual narrative of this story – as in others she has written – is woven so intentionally that it is impossible to separate the two from one another. The inevitable discoveries of who (gasp!) and what (gasp!) and where (gasp!) and how (gasp!) the two timelines are connected in All The Lost Places left me both deliciously stunned and positively delighted right down to my toes.
Not to mention the author’s poetic voice that has me reading out loud just to slow down and savor each carefully placed word. Sentences like:
"There was shadow and song in every stone."
or
"The place dripped in gold and history."
or
"Never had the connection between them been stronger – and never had the distance between them been so great."
Blissful sigh. Aren’t they just so pretty?
And then there is the heartbeat of All the Lost Places itself – the theme that curves through the story like Venice’s famed waterways. “Empty places… are not always lost places.” And, conversely, lost places are not always empty places. Brokenness can give way to beauty when in the hands of an Artist. The characters in this book are each a little (or a lot) broken in one way or another (or several), and our respective heroes in each timeline are seeking (whether they realize it or not) to be found and to find their place in history’s story. The way their stories intersect is not something I will soon forget – not only the joy of the discovery of it but of what it did to my own heart.
Bottom Line: All the Lost Places is exquisite in every way – from its vivid characters that set up camp in your heart to the lyrical prose and the healing message of redemption and restoration. Of beauty from ashes. Of art from brokenness. Of family and books and story… and, of course, Venice. I want to go back and start reading it all over again as one who hasn’t read it yet – such treasure on these pages! Take heart, dear readers: “Courage keep and hope beget, the story is not finished yet.”
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
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