The Secret of the Glass

by Donna Russo Morin

The Murano glassmakers of Venice are celebrated and revered. But now three are dead, killed for attempting to leave the city that both prized their work and kept them prisoner. For in this, the 17th century, the secret of their craft must, by law, never leave Venetian shores. Yet there is someone who keeps the secret while defying tradition. She is Sophia Fiolario, and she, too, is a glassmaker. Her crime is being a woman. . .

Sophia is well aware that her family would be crushed by scandal if the truth of her knowledge and skill with glass were revealed. But there has never been any threat. . .until now. A wealthy nobleman with strong connections to the powerful Doge has requested her hand in marriage, and her refusal could draw dangerous attention. Yet having to accept and cease her art would devastate her. If there is an escape, Sophia intends to find it.

Now, between creating precious glass parts for one of Professor Galileo Galilei's astonishing inventions and attending lavish parties at the Doge's Palace, Sophia is crossing paths with very influential people--including one who could change her life forever. But in Venice, every secret has its price. And Sophia must decide how much she is willing to pay.


Praise for Donna Russo Morin's The Courtier's Secret

"As opulent and sparkling as Louis XIV's court and as filled with intrigue, passion and excitement as a novel by Dumas. . .a feast for the senses." -- Romantic Times (4 stars)

"Vivid, delightful, spirited. . .a page-turner as smooth as fine cognac."
–Steven Manchester, author of The Unexpected Storm

"A wonderfully spun gem of a story." -- Armchair Reviews

Reading Group Guide Inside

Genres: Historical Fiction, Italy, Historical, Fiction, Romance, Adult, 17th Century

384 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2010

About the author

Donna Russo is a bestselling author of historical, biographical, and women's fiction, as well as fantasy. She has made a significant impact in the literary world with her detailed writing and compelling characters. Her notable works include multi-award-winning Vincent’s Women and her internationally bestselling Novels of Newport: Gilded Age series, Gilded Summers and Gilded Dreams. Her historical fantasy, The King’s Agent, earned a starred review in Publisher’s Weekly.

An award-winning screenwriter, ghostwriter, and artist, Donna has over thirty years of experience as a certified book coach and has been a writing instructor for Writer’s Digest for over a decade. Donna has also worked as an actor and model with appearances in such notable works as Martin Scorsese’s THE DEPARTED and Showtimes THE BROTHERHOOD. Donna is also one of the oldest practicing yoga aerialists in the country. www.authordonnarusso.com


Donna enjoys meeting with book groups in person and via Skype chat. Visit her website at www.donnarussomorin.com;
friend her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Donna.Russo.M...
Follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/donnarussom...
Follow her on Twitter @DonnaRussoMorin.

Reviews

[Marie Burton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Donna Russo Morin tackles seventeenth century Venice in her newest novel, The Secret of the Glass. She writes of many underlying themes while she tells the story of Sophia, a girl who is doomed to marry a nobleman against her wishes. She is the eldest child of a glassmaking family, and as such, she is the only daughter that is allowed to marry, bringing with her the inheritance of the lucrative glass factory that has been in heritage for years. The remaining daughters will be forced to enter a convent once Sophia's sickly father dies. The story centers around this possibility, and the fact that Sophia wants nothing to do with her betrothed, Pasquale. Worse yet, her father who suffers from dementia has alluded to the fact that Pasquale's family has something damning to hide, but Sophia cannot approach her father with further questions. She instead decides to follow her betrothed to see if she can find out something about him, as he is not very talkative when they are together.

The Secret of The Glass carries with it the intrigue of the glassmaking process, and gives details about it as Sophia herself creates the pieces. That is a subject that would be damaging to the family if anyone found out the fact that it has been Sophia making the glass for so long, since it is against the law for women to do so. When Sophia is presented with the possibility of losing the ability to make the glass due to her betrothal, she decides to try and devise a way out. Along the way, she meets the dashing fellow, Teodoro, someone who is not allowed to marry, and they are instantly attracted to each other.

Beginning with the tradition of carnival time, the author slowly meanders her way through this story, presenting details of Venice that are intended to bring Venice to life. Although I am normally very appreciative of historical detail, I was turned off by the many Italian words that were inserted. I had no inkling of what many of these words meant, and that really distracted my attention span, which in turn failed to pull me into the story. I would assume that those readers who love Venice and its allure may truly be entertained by the endless snippets of detail that the novel imparts. For this reader though, I felt the reading was sluggish for me, and that it was hard to become emotionally attached to Sophia or any of her supporting characters. Her characters were interesting enough, and I was surprised by one character's actions at the end of the novel, so much so that it was too out of character. With a story that focused mainly on the political atmosphere at the time, which was the most intriguing, it seemed that more things were happening around Sophia but not directly to her, which makes the events and plot seem a bit more simple while describing the book. I am particularly interested to see how others will review this book, especially by those who really adore Italy. Perhaps this one was too far out of my comfort zone of England-related reads for me to appreciate at this time.

That being said, I was particulary intrigued by the scenes that included Galileo, as it is told in the novel Sophia made the lenses for his first telescope, which was the central instrument for the Scientific Revolution of the seventeenth century. This in turn affected the political, social and religious controversy of the times, which was one of the themes incorporated into this novel. Those who believed in theories of the astronomer Copernicus were branded as heretics, and those who supported Galileo were therefore tottering on that same edge of heresy. Another interesting theme was the Pope versus the doge, with an important case of clerics which occurred in 1605 and who should have the authority to govern disputes. I was also touched by one theme of the high dowry and forced marriage situations at that time.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sophia Fiolario is the daughter of the famous Fiolario glass makers. Her father is one of the most sought after glass makers. There is just one problem…for the past several years it has been Sophia and not her father who has been making the blown glass pieces. If any one were to ever learn that Sophia knew the secret of the glass there will be serious consequences.

Sophia’s parents plan to marry Sophia off to Pasquale da Fuligna. Sophia is devastated by the arrangement. First off, Pasquale is old enough to be her father, second, he is not that good looking, and third, he has many dark secrets. To make matters worse, Sophia’s father has fallen deadly ill. Sophia must make a decision on whether to reveal her knowledge of the glass and possibly lose everything she holds dear to her.

The Secret of the Glass by Donna Russo Morin is a book to not be missed by historical readers alike. While the events aren’t exact and to the point, they are still pretty accurate of the trade of glass maker that was and still is popular to date. I have to admit that this story moved a bit slowly at first but as I got about a third of the way into this book, is when things really started to progress and move smoothly for me. I really liked that despise having the odds stacked against her, during a time when men were the dominant ones, that Sophia was such a strong character. To learn more about The Secret of the Glass, try this book out for yourself.

[Sx · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I finished this book, I only felt immense relief. It was so dry, I took twice as long as usual to read it. While it was clear Morin paid exquisite attention to detail and tried to acquaint the reader to 17th century Venice, it was educational, but there was lack of life infused to the book - it read more like a dry textbook. I've learnt a lot about Venice, but took nothing away from the characters, which was what I'd have wanted more.

Also, what was with the about-turn of one of the major characters in the book towards the end? Throughout the book, he was painted so horribly that his change of heart and kinship with Sophia at the end felt extremely out of place. For a book about glass making, there was precious little about the intrigue that came with her huge secret or the ramifications she'd have faced. I don't know, maybe I expected more but I felt hugely let down.

Overall, I'd recommend it to anyone wanting to find out more about 17th century Venice and the glass making industry. If you're looking for heart and soul in a book, I'd suggest you look elsewhere.

[Tara Chevrestt · Rating 1 out of 5]

Having read The Courtier's Secret and enjoyed it for the most part, I gladly forked over ten dollars to Amazon for this book and gleefully picked it up. A quarter into it, I realized I wasted my money. WAY too many adjectives. I don't need to know a building's entire history as well as facade and color. Who cares how the dresses blow in the wind exactly?? One word would be adequate. I don't need nine. The prose.. tho I realize these are not women of the 21st century, they are a good 16, 17 years old and I found their prose utterly childish. A DNF for me but my ten bucks allows me to post my thoughts.

[Vanessa · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'll admit it --- the gorgeous cover made me buy this book. The premise sounded interesting, as well, but it was mainly the cover (which is really one of the most beautiful I've ever seen for a historical fiction novel).

Unfortunately, the writing was dry and stilted, and the dialogue was really bad. The characters were sketchy --- I didn't feel like I really learned much about any of them.

I gave up halfway through the book --- I could just not make myself finish this one.

[Penny Ramirez · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh. There are many reasons why I don't much like historical fiction, and this book pretty much had them all. I guess it was 2.5 stars - I sort of liked parts of it. Far too much descriptive language - excessive descriptions of clothing and locations. Crappily edited grammar. Are there no editors on this planet anymore? Sigh.

Not exactly sure why this was considered in a romance contest - yes, there was a romance in the book, but it was by FAR not the main plot line, and only barely a HEA.

[James Sajo · Rating 1 out of 5]

Pretty good story, but the writing style is too close to romance novel for me. Too much simile and metaphor that seemed over-the-top-bosom-heaving for my taste. Three or four chapters were straight out of the romance genre. Best part was the epilogue...

[Laura · Rating 1 out of 5]

I just could not get into this book--the author uses far too many unnecessary adjectives and forced metaphors.

[Heather · Rating 2 out of 5]

It took to long to get me hooked. It was okay.

[Laurie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kept getting distracted

[Sandie Mixa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating of 3.5, this was a very unique setting for me: the island of Murano, next to Venice, in the 1600's. Sophia, age 20 is secretly a glass blower in her father's factory. It was illegal for women to make glass in those days. I struggled through the first 4 chapters with the immense detail of the town festivals, lots of Italian phrases and names thrown in. I almost put it away. Finally the storyline emerged for me, and I came to like Sophia and her selfless personality. Some things didn't make sense to me in the second half of the book, such as her reluctance to ditch her fiance, but i was happy with how it ended. I learned a lot about Galileo and Venice, so that was fun too.

[Romancing the Book · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review by Stephanie

The Murano glassmakers of Venice are celebrated and revered. But now three are dead, killed for attempting to leave the city that both prized their work and kept them prisoner. For in this, the 17th century, the secret of their craft must, by law, never leave Venetian shores. Yet there is someone who keeps the secret while defying tradition. She is Sophia Fiolario, and she, too, is a glassmaker. Her crime is being a woman --Sophia is well aware that her family would be crushed by scandal if the truth of her knowledge and skill with glass were revealed. But there has never been any threat-until now. A wealthy nobleman with strong connections to the powerful Doge has requested her hand in marriage, and her refusal could draw dangerous attention. Yet having to accept and cease her art would devastate her. If there is an escape, Sophia intends to find it.

Now, between creating precious glass parts for one of Professor Galileo Galilei's astonishing inventions and attending lavish parties at the Doge's Palace, Sophia is crossing paths with very influential people--including one who could change her life forever. But in Venice, every secret has its price. And Sophia must decide how much she is willing to pay.

* * * * *

Is it just me, or was history class one of the most painful classes ever, in high school? It wasn't particularly hard, just...boring.
The Secret of the Glass by Donna Russo Morin is of the "historical fiction" genre. For me, reading historical novels was always the best part of history class. It became weary to have to read pages and pages of thick, heavy textbooks, and then sit through hours and hours of dull documentaries (though they were an easy method for me to catch up on my sleep), so being able to read something fictional, yet still relevant, was always a sort of relief. Had I been given the chance to read The Secrets of the Glass in 10th grade Honors World History, I might have dreaded that course a little less. Otherwise, I couldn't quite get myself to enjoy this book.

Don't get me wrong, it's beautifully written. Morin pays such breathtaking attention to detail, and I swear, there wasn't one word that was used twice throughout the entire book. Aside from extensive vocabulary and amazing imagery however, the story lacked intrigue.

Sophia, the protagonist, is an entirely two-dimensional character. She's the most beautiful of the three Fiolario daughters, and the most innocent of them too. Her biggest concerns are 1) her father is suffering from dementia; 2) she is betrothed to a man she despises, Pasquale da Fuligna; 3) she is in "love" with another man, Teodoro Gradenigo; and 4) she is the only woman in the world who knows the art of glassmaking. But because Sophia was such an unrealistic and unmoving character, I couldn't find mind myself feeling sympathetic for her at all. First of all, she practically bawled every time her father blanked out. Every so often, he would forget everything, everyone, and the doctors said he was losing his mind to age. Sophia is supposed to be the practical goody-good virgin; she's not doing anything practical or goody-good by crying for her father's disease. It was painful for me to read about such babyish behavior. Secondly, Morin made it clear that Sophia must marry da Fuligna, a man who is neither rich, nor handsome in any way. I actually laughed at this a little; surely the Fiolario family must have had the tiniest ounce of dignity. Why they would marry their eldest daughter off to a man who neither loved their daughter, nor had anything to offer, I'll be darned. And of course, Teodoro. Ah. He was probably the only character in the book I could imagine without giggling or wincing. Handsome, charming, polite...what a gentleman. So much of gentleman to Sophia actually, that within first meeting him, she declared to herself that she was in love with him. Chemistry? Nooo, who needs chemistry when you have love at first sight (even though you're already engaged)?

Morin was clearly attempting to weave an intricate plot with complicated details, but for some reason, the two didn't mix. The Secret of the Glass made out for a really, really interesting textbook. I could have written my essay on Roman Studies with just this book, in the 10th grade. But as a novel, it was weak and had difficulty capturing my attention.

I understand that this book was written because of an initial passion Donna Russo Morin held for Italian glassworks...a little too big of a passion, perhaps? I mean, the first paragraph of the book is an epic simile where glassblowing is compared to the reaching of an orgasm. I thought I was a fan of the hot and sweaty stuff until I read those few lines.

Most historical romances are romance novels with little tidbits of the respective history thrown in; The Secret of the Glass was an informative description with tidbits of respective romance thrown in. If you're into that kind of stuff, this book will enchant you. But if you're like me and require more fiction than fact, then Morin's story may bore you to tears.

Rating: six out of ten. Would I recommend? Sure. Enthusiastically? Eh...

http://www.romancing-the-book.com/201...

[Karielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Blurb: The Murano glassmakers of Venice are celebrated and revered. But now three are dead, killed for attempting to leave the city that both prized their work and kept them prisoner. For in this, the 17th century, the secret of their craft must, by law, never leave Venetian shores. Yet there is someone who keeps the secret while defying tradition. She is Sophia Fiolario, and she, too, is a glassmaker. Her crime is being a woman --Sophia is well aware that her family would be crushed by scandal if the truth of her knowledge and skill with glass were revealed. But there has never been any threat-until now. A wealthy nobleman with strong connections to the powerful Doge has requested her hand in marriage, and her refusal could draw dangerous attention. Yet having to accept and cease her art would devastate her. If there is an escape, Sophia intends to find it.
Now, between creating precious glass parts for one of Professor Galileo Galilei's astonishing inventions and attending lavish parties at the Doge's Palace, Sophia is crossing paths with very influential people--including one who could change her life forever. But in Venice, every secret has its price. And Sophia must decide how much she is willing to pay.

Is it just me, or was history class one of the most painful classes ever, in high school? It wasn't particularly hard, just...boring.

The Secret of the Glass by Donna Russo Morin is of the "historical fiction" genre. For me, reading historical novels was always the best part of history class. It became weary to have to read pages and pages of thick, heavy textbooks, and then sit through hours and hours of dull documentaries (though they were an easy method for me to catch up on my sleep), so being able to read something fictional, yet still relevant, was always a sort of relief. Had I been given the chance to read The Secrets of the Glass in 10th grade Honors World History, I might have dreaded that course a little less. Otherwise, I couldn't quite get myself to enjoy this book.

Don't get me wrong, it's beautifully written. Morin pays such breathtaking attention to detail, and I swear, there wasn't one word that was used twice throughout the entire book. Aside from extensive vocabulary and amazing imagery however, the story lacked intrigue.

Sophia, the protagonist, is an entirely two-dimensional character. She's the most beautiful of the three Fiolario daughters, and the most innocent of them too. Her biggest concerns are 1) her father is suffering from dementia; 2) she is betrothed to a man she despises, Pasquale da Fuligna; 3) she is in "love" with another man, Teodoro Gradenigo; and 4) she is the only woman in the world who knows the art of glassmaking. But because Sophia was such an unrealistic and unmoving character, I couldn't find mind myself feeling sympathetic for her at all. First of all, she practically bawled every time her father blanked out. Every so often, he would forget everything, everyone, and the doctors said he was losing his mind to age. Sophia is supposed to be the practical goody-good virgin; she's not doing anything practical or goody-good by crying for her father's disease. It was painful for me to read about such babyish behavior. Secondly, Morin made it clear that Sophia must marry da Fuligna, a man who is neither rich, nor handsome in any way. I actually laughed at this a little; surely the Fiolario family must have had the tiniest ounce of dignity. Why they would marry their eldest daughter off to a man who neither loved their daughter, nor had anything to offer, I'll be darned. And of course, Teodoro. Ah. He was probably the only character in the book I could imagine without giggling or wincing. Handsome, charming, polite...what a gentleman. So much of gentleman to Sophia actually, that within first meeting him, she declared to herself that she was in love with him. Chemistry? Nooo, who needs chemistry when you have love at first sight (even though you're already engaged)?

Morin was clearly attempting to weave an intricate plot with complicated details, but for some reason, the two didn't mix. The Secret of the Glass made out for a really, really interesting textbook. I could have written my essay on Roman Studies with just this book, in the 10th grade. But as a novel, it was weak and had difficulty capturing my attention.

I understand that this book was written because of an initial passion Donna Russo Morin held for Italian glassworks...a little too big of a passion, perhaps? I mean, the first paragraph of the book is an epic simile where glassblowing is compared to the reaching of an orgasm. I thought I was a fan of the hot and sweaty stuff until I read those few lines.

Most historical romances are romance novels with little tidbits of the respective history thrown in; The Secret of the Glass was an informative description with tidbits of respective romance thrown in. If you're into that kind of stuff, this book will enchant you. But if you're like me and require more fiction than fact, then Morin's story may bore you to tears.

Radical Rating: 6 hearts- Would recommend to people. ♥♥♥♥♥♥

[Beata Rawdanowicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I especially liked the neat ending… saving someone’s life can dramatically change your own.
The story of Galileo and Venice itself as a setting were great features in the plot.

[Allie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I tend to really enjoy historical fiction that deals with a specific craft, especially crafts of artistic merit. Take The Queen’s Dollmaker for example. I loved learning about the details of 18th century dollmaking and all the techniques involved in achieving what was then considered a masterpiece. The same thing goes for The Secret of the Glass. The aspect that intrigued me the most was the inclusion of the glassmaking process. Perhaps it is the artistic side of me or the intrinsic businesswoman from within, but I love reading about women with jobs (hidden or open) pre-1970.

The women's empowerment aspect is definitely a draw for me as well. Not only was Sophia a glassmaker, but she also practiced her craft in secret because women were not allowed to be glassmakers in the 17th century. In order to continue profiting generously from the lucrative trade of Murano glass so exclusive to Venice, the Venetian government had forbidden its glassmakers from leaving the island of Murano. Since her father Zeno had no sons to train in his intricate craft, he imparted his knowledge of glassmaking trade secrets on Sophia. In fact, because there were no male heirs among Sophia’s family to carry on the family business, the glass factory would become part of Sophia’s inheritance upon her father’s death. This makes Sophia’s secret even more difficult to hide, given that she is to be married off to Pasquale, a man who treats her like his arm candy and whom Sophia simply cannot stand. Which brings up another theme in this novel – arranged marriages. When Sophia’s father passes away, her two sisters will be forced to enter convents because her family, though well-standing artisans, can only afford one daughter’s expensive dowry. When Sophia falls for the poor son of a nobleman, this only makes her unwelcome betrothal an even bigger burden to bear…

A fault I often find in some historical novels is overwrought historical detail. After an author has done all this extensive research he or she may feel the urge to include every single element of their notes in the final product. Sometimes this can come off to readers (at least this reader) as forced. Demonstrating reserve with all this knowledge and trimming down the research to the parts that best suit the story is often the trickiest part of writing a novel that takes place in the past, so I’m told. One must be very tactful when interweaving all these dates and facts and histories. It must flow delicately along with the rest of the story and not stand apart from the rest of the story. While I did find much of the period detail about Venice in The Secret of the Glass interesting, at certain points I felt this was one of those historical novels where the author just crams too much of it all at once.

I could have done without a lot of the beginning section of the book. Again, I think that the overdone period detail weighed it down a bit for me, making it a slower read than it should have been. The book did pick up once Galileo entered the picture, however. I particularly enjoyed learning about the enlightenment period and the very beginning of what would eventually become controversial scientific theory trumping Church edict. Of course, before that could possibly come to fruition, anyone thought to be associated with or believing in Copernican theory was arrested as a heretic, and as we know from the history textbooks, Galileo Galilei was one of them. I enjoyed how Galileo’s story was intertwined with Sophia’s (I won’t reveal how here!), and I believe this was one of the areas of the story where the author really shined in combining history with fictional characters. If you're interested in reading a novel that covers the history of Venice as well as that of a well-guarded trade that has been cloaked in mystery for centuries, topped off with some recognizable historical figures thrown into the mix, then this is the novel for you!

FTC Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher for review.

[Jeannie Mancini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Donna Russo Morin's second historical novel "The Secret of the Glass" takes place in 17th century Venice among the courts and canals of Le Serenissima's Island of Murano. For centuries Murano has been renowned for the gorgeous and shimmering glass it creates. Many families have taught generation after generation, the secret of glass making, a secret forbidden to leave the island.

With polished writing and a penchant for historical detail, Morin tells her story of young Sophia, daughter of Murano's best glassmaker, who in secret has learned the art of glassmaking from her father. Not a soul but they know that she is a proficient and talented artisan, and her knowledge must be kept in confidence. The Doge and politicians governing Venice forbid women to work the glass under threat of punishment, imprisonment or death. The author begins the story with Sophia's father developing dementia, causing his glassmaking hands to falter and no longer create. Worried for her family's future, Sophia works the glass in concealed operation by night, keeping the family shop profiting with no one to know but herself. A knock on the door one day surprises her, none other than the famed astronomer Galileo is requesting an unusual glass lens for a scientific invention he hopes to impress the Doge and his council with. Realizing she is up for the task, she agrees to the commission and manufactures the fragile work for him, producing Galileo's first set of telescopic lens.

Unfortunately for Sophia, with her father failing rapidly, her parents make a marriage match for her to a local noble. A man Sophia finds repulsive and arrogant. He has no promises of love, holds no respect or kindness for Sophia, and out and out informs her he is marrying her for the benefit of taking over the glassworks. In shock she is told that once wed, after her father has died, he will send her sisters and mother to a convent. Doing her family duty by acquiescing to this folly, she and her fiancé Pasquale begin to show face amidst the grand fete's and festivals as he properly courts her before marriage bands are set. Wishing a way out of her dilemma, Sophia is introduced to another handsome gentleman at one evenings event, and from this blooming friendship she finds the love of her life, as well as a dear friend with a plan to outwit Pasquale and to save Sophia's family livelihood.

Glamour and glitz, opulent parties and romantic gondola rides permeate the pages of this historical novel, setting the atmosphere for an alluring portrayal of Venice in the 1600s. Although I found the novel a bit long and drawn out and came across many boring sections, all and all it is an enjoyable read well told. Morin's writing style is very accomplished, her historical research allowed me a detailed view of the times, and her character development very endearing. I feel the short fall was within the plot itself. There were a lot pages for a very simple story that was not very complex, and I found it very predictable as it fell into the formula of most historical romance novels of this kind. Having Galileo make a cameo appearance will more than likely be the key interest for readers deciding to purchase the book or not, But I warn that his presence is scarce. Venice is one of my favorite locations to escape to when armchair traveling, and I felt the author did an exquisite job of taking me there, and presenting me with a fairytale Venice of the past.

[Mirella · Rating 5 out of 5]

For centuries, the talented Murano glassmakers of Venice have been distinguished and honoured. Their secrets to glassmaking closely guarded, their prized products highly sought after. Now, author Donna Russo Morin, has penned a novel that sweeps the reader into the 17th century world and lives of these secretive, revered artisans.

The Venetian government highly protects its glassmakers, their factories, and their families, for this is what brings wealth and fame to La Serenissima. Venetian law forces them to live on the island of Murano, their movements closely guarded. When three glassmakers secretly try to flee their restrictive life, they are found murdered. No one can escape these restrictions.

Sophia Fiolario is the eldest daughter of a wealthy glassmaker who has no sons to inherit his highly successful factory. Sophia has a special bond with her father and is passionate about the art of glassmaking. But women are prohibited from learning the mysteries of this highly classified art. It is considered a crime and the penalties are severe and destructive. It can ruin their family and the carefully cultivated reputation of their factory. Sophia has learned the art covertly from her father, the truth of which they must keep highly guarded, even from their own family.

A marriage is arranged between Sophia and an elder impoverished nobleman who will inherit the glass factory upon Sophia 19s father 19s death. The family cannot refuse even though the nobleman is cruel and uncaring. Sophia knows it will mean an end to the idyllic life she knows and the end to her furtive glassmaking ventures. While in the throes of the loveless betrothal, Sophia encounters one man who opens her heart and holds the key to her future happiness.

Donna Russo Morin has written a majestic novel, breathtaking in its prose, and sweeping in its scope, about 17th century Venice at the height of its glory. What left me most in awe about this novel, was the highly detailed descriptions of the scenery, streets, architecture and famous people like Galileo himself. It literally transports you to Venice with all its beautiful sights.

The characters had depth and realism with scores of emotions. I literally fell into the story as if I lived and breathed the same air as Sophia and her family and friends. From its festivals and government, life in Venice is masterfully rendered. Ms. Morin is a master storyteller and this is one of best written novels of Venice I have ever read. For lovers of Venetian history, or aficionados of the 17th century, this is one novel worth reading. But you 19ll have to wait a little. The novel is scheduled for release early in 2010.

[Lucy Bertoldi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Right from the start I knew I would be interested in reading THE SECRET OF THE GLASS. How could I pass up a novel on fabulous 17 c Venice and the art of glassmaking? I was hooked from the beginning. Sophia Fiolario, the eldest of Zeno Fiolario’s three daughters, learned the secret of this art.

Taught by her father, and with his comsent, Sophia dared to create the glass- but at a very dangerous price. Women were banned from working the glass and anyone discovered of doing so would risk imprisonment or worse. When Zeno is no longer lucid enough to continue his practice, Sophia worked ‘underground’ to keep the business going. Noone knew.

Betrothed against her will to the arrogant, cold, poor- but of noble class, Pasquale, Sophia is torn by the thought of what wil happen to her sisters, mother and grandmother if her father passes away. Happiness is only a distant dream…until Teodoro comes into the picture. Will Sophia keep her secret? Will the women in her family end up in convents? Will her soul perish muffled in a life of bondage? What will happen when Zeno dies?

The book immediately begins with detailed historical information and luscious descriptions of Venice. Now I know that this can sometimes drag a book, but in my case, I appreciated the details and found it most interesting. I love everything Venetian, and just can’t get enough- and this book certainly gave me my fill. I think this is what I loved best about the book. I pictured every single calle and palazzos in my mind. I never knew that there was a golden book listing all the nobles of Venice. Even Veronica Franco makes an appearance! But, best of all- I loved learning the details of the glass making process and all the politics behind it. This truly was a secret world guarded with their lives.

THE SECRET OF THE GLASS had me dreaming of Venice. If you’re as passionate about the place as I am, you will enjoy reading this tale of romance, picturesque history and the shaping of a great republic ruled by the Doges. And, if you know some Italian, it’s a bonus! This book is filled with the language. As for myself though, I was a bit disappointed that in those instances the Veneto dialect wasn’t used; which would have given the novel more life and flair.

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of Donna Russo Morin’s work.

[Heather C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophia Fiolario is the daughter of one of the great glassmakers of Murano. The making of the glass is a secret that only the men of Murano are allowed to know or partake in – except one woman knows the secret – Sophia. Sophia is betrothed to marry a man that she despises and who really has no interest in her – except so that he can carry on his own interests. At the same time she falls in love with someone she can’t have. As her life starts to spiral out of control, Sophia worries as to what will happen to the glassworks factory and what will happen to her now that she knows the secret…

I have to admit that going into this book I had no idea what “the secret” of the glass was, and I was oblivious to it for awhile – although it was fairly obvious now that I look back at it. I loved learning all about how glass was made – I could almost see it happening in my mind (I can make some beautiful glass in my mind). This is the second book in a short time that I have read about artisans – the previous one being The Queen’s Dollmaker by Christine Trent. It was enjoyable to read about something other than royalty for a little while.

I loved the character of Sophia. I could feel all of her emotions and desires. I also was fascinated by her love interest, Teodoro – she picked a good one all right! The characters were very well developed – even the minor characters. I also enjoyed how Galileo was a prominent character, without being the main character. I found him very likeable and it encouraged me to look up a little more about him (someone I didn’t care too much about in school).

There were a couple of small issues I had with this book. I wished the ending had a little more to it. Don’t get me wrong, I was very happy with the twist at the end, but I wish there was a little bit more after the twist. I felt like it ended a little abruptly. I also would have liked a little more explanation regarding this mysterious illness that Galileo had that affected him frequently – I’m a little perplexed about that one.

Overall, I very much enjoyed this book. This strengthened my enjoyment of books that focus on the more obscure characters.

This book was received for review from the publisher - I was not compensated for my opinions and the above is my honest review.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this second historical novel by author Donna Russo Morin, readers are welcomed to the luscious, secret world of 17th century Venice, where the Murano glassmakers create some of the most beautiful and most desirable glass in the world. The local authorities are so obsessed with keeping the process behind the glassmaking secret that they kill any glassmaker who dares to leave Venice.

After three glassmakers are killed for attempting to leave the city, the Murano glassmakers are in an uproar. Sophia Fiolario, though, has committed the greatest crime of all. In the absence of a male heir, her glassmaker father has taught Sophia Murano glassmaking in secret, though she is a woman and absolutely in love with the craft. But when her father falls ill and the family business and wealth are put in jeopardy, Sophia is forced into an engagement with a wealthy, well-connected nobleman who can solve all her family's financial woes -but that would mean giving up glassmaking forever. After becoming the personal glassmaker for Galileo's inventions, Sophia becomes drawn into the world of Venician politics.

While The Secret of the Glass offers an interesting setup, it doesn't move much past that. The world is interesting, the conflict is interesting, Sophia is interesting, but they fail to hold the reader's attention for long and the plot manages to be so spread out over such little action that the story comes to a crawl for the majority of the novel that left me wondering why this story wasn't nearly 300 pages shorter. The inclusion of Galileo as a character was somewhat unique, but seemed to add nothing to the story other than to attempt to inject something different into the plot.

For me, basically everything about The Secret of the Glass fell flat. It was a great idea, but it was never fully realized or well-executed. This one was painful -flat setting, flat characters and a pointless plot that just never came together.

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophia Fiolario is the daughter of renown glass-maker Zeno Fiolario of Murano. This is the early 1600s and it is forbidden for glass-makers to leave Murano under punishment of death. Zeno has taught his daughter the secrets and she is making beautiful glassware during the night. If anyone should find out that a woman is making glass, there would be a huge scandal and Sophia's life could be in danger.

Zeno has started to show signs of dementia which would put his family at risk since there are no male heirs. Galileo commissions the factory to make some very special pieces of glass for his latest invention. With her father unable to comply, Sophia fulfills the order.

Sophia has reluctantly consented to marry Pasquale Da Fuligna , a poor nobleman. Neither of them care for the other and Pasquale only wishes her money and will buy her siblings and mother a place in a convent. Sophia would be banished from the furnaces. Sophia must marry him unless she can find some sort of escape.

As Sophia is taken to balls and musicals she meets another poor nobleman, Teodoro whom she falls madly in love with. Teodoro is however the youngest son and must not marry.

A historical romance in the truest fashion, this book delivers. The history of the famous glass-makers of Murano is intricately woven with the intrigues and frustrations of romance.

[Lori Anderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked this book up because one, I'm a glass bead maker, and two, I lived for a short time in Venice, Italy. That being said, this book had a lot of potential, but fizzled short of that potential.

The biggest issue I had with the book was the constant use of Italian words, usually without any necessary reason to, and almost always without defining them. Fortunately, I know Italian, but for a reader who does not, this would almost certainly turn them off. I just didn't see WHY she had to insert an Italian word onto EVERY page. Not at all necessary to get the story told.

The second issue is with the ending. All this build up, and then -- I was shocked when I got to the end and realized, "That's IT?" It was all too pat, too contrived, and too convenient. I wanted more -- more fleshed out. Just when the story started getting good, she quit.

Not sure that I would recommend this to anyone else, but I'm glad I read it purely from a bead maker and historical fiction lover's point of view.


Lori Anderson

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[Judith · Rating 3 out of 5]

A historical novel set in Renaissance Venice--a woman who is secretly working as a master glass blower--a deed that would ruin her social reputation and bring down the family--and filled with the history of Venice of that day. That's just what was a problem for me. I like to know the politics of the times and some of the key players, but this went on for pages and pages, and I think the love story just got lost. Sophie is now betrothed to a man who only wants her family money, who has clear intent of putting her mother and two unmarried sisters in a convent rather than seek husbands for her, and who just wants to seek his own pleasure and intellectual pursuits. Sophie must find a way to keep her secret joy of glass blowing or find a way to endure her marriage, or find a way to be with the man who is quickly becoming essential to her future happiness, and it isn't her betrothed. Good story in many ways. Just way too much history and political information.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you have ever wanted to get to know the sumptuous, sophisticated, wealthy, not-quite-maiden aunt of the Harlequin Romance novels, this is the book for you!! A sensual, seductive read with enough history and glass blowing woven in to give the story some serious substance. Wonderful details and if you have ever been to Venice, even more enticing of a read. I was a little bit disappointed by the final 10 pages or so, however. Not that it wasn't a satisfying end to the tale, because it certainly was. But because there was a little bit of artifice included that felt slightly false in order for it all to fall together as nicely as it did and as quickly as needed. I would recommend it, however, and thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"What is it about some men's egos that forces them to say anything when they should say nothing at all?" - Galileo

"It is the duty of every human to live up to the potential that is inherently theirs at birth. Our destiny lies in our own hands. I cannot allow fear to alter my destiny." - Galileo

Sophia answered [Teodoro's] stare with her own. His naked honesty bewildered her. If sincere, he was an enigma, a conundrum amid a race of men who fought so ferociously for their veneer of virility. How strong must this man be to so blatantly flaunt his own flaws? She couldn't look away from him, couldn't break the bond his confession had created between them.

One human could never know another, what lay deep and buried in the quintessence of another; no one could be another's judge.

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was slow to start, but then became engaging and more enjoyable. It's much like Donna Russo Morin's other works so if you have read any others you will know what to expect. There is a heroine, who has a secret ability that places her outside expected gender norms of the setting, and there is a conflict which threatens her chance at love while exposing her "terrible" secret/ability. In this case it's the ability to create glass.

I liked it, I just wish there was a bit more romance and a lot less focus on the Venetian politics.

[Jess · Rating 3 out of 5]

Morin's too-liberal use of Italian words - without explanations or translations* - detracted from the overall experience of reading this book. The plot was nothing fresh, but lavish historical details and strong characterization saved this from being just another historical chick-lit novel.

*Inferring from contextual clues and similarities to English and Latin can only get you so far.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had a harder time getting into this book. It was full of details and the story would almost stall out before it picked up again. The author threw in a lot of Italian words and while i know the intent was to sink the reader into the Italian culture it actually made it more difficult. It was ok= definitely not one of my favorites by any means!

[Rai · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is not what I expected. And sometimes I liked it... and sometimes I didn't. There is all together too much random Italian thrown in. I understand that it is set in Italy... however it is written in English. And using random Italian words distracted me rather then made me feel more immersed. Especially the way they would throw the translation in as well.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read a few books now that star female protagonists that are somewhat involved with the Venetian glassblowing industry and the research is spot on. The sections including Galileo were interesting too.
What I wasn't really sold on was the rushed happy ending with romance that fizzled and didn't sizzle.