April 2011, Razorbill
272 pages, Paperback
Review copy
Young Adult (12+) Historical
Mysteries of Venetian society, lots of danger, half-truths, rumours, the hidden power of women, secrets, tragedy, mild romance
Summary from Puffin
Nayuleska's reason for loving Laura...even when she's afraid, she keeps following her heart and persuing what she believes is right. She isn't totally naive about life, but inevitably time inside the convent will make some social customs unknown to her.
Is there another character who deserves a special mention? Faustina, Laura's maid. She cares for her mistress greatly, but looks the other way and tries to put her best interests first.
How evil/nasty is the enemy? Until the end there are several enemies, and they all seem terrifying to Laura.
Are there plenty of plot twists and surprises? The novel really turned itself on its head in several places.
One of my favourite parts was...when the Segreta (a secret society) gave Laura protection when she most needed it (and I'm not saying whereabouts in the story that is!)
I give it 8/10
For another Venetian tale try Daughter of Venice by Donna Jo Napoli
For mystery wherever you turn, try The Lady in the Tower by Marie-Louise Jensen
Laura della Scala knows nothing beyond the convent walls which have trapped and bound her since she was twelve years old.
A single night will change her life.
She will soon learn the difference between an arranged marriage and true, reckless love.
Venice is a dangerous city. Intrigue, romance and power lie at its heart and secrets run through the blood of its rulers.
They call Laura 'La Muta'. The Silent One. She is about to break her silence . . .but at what cost?
Nayuleska's reason for loving Laura...even when she's afraid, she keeps following her heart and persuing what she believes is right. She isn't totally naive about life, but inevitably time inside the convent will make some social customs unknown to her.
Is there another character who deserves a special mention? Faustina, Laura's maid. She cares for her mistress greatly, but looks the other way and tries to put her best interests first.
How evil/nasty is the enemy? Until the end there are several enemies, and they all seem terrifying to Laura.
Are there plenty of plot twists and surprises? The novel really turned itself on its head in several places.
One of my favourite parts was...when the Segreta (a secret society) gave Laura protection when she most needed it (and I'm not saying whereabouts in the story that is!)
I give it 8/10
For another Venetian tale try Daughter of Venice by Donna Jo Napoli
For mystery wherever you turn, try The Lady in the Tower by Marie-Louise Jensen
2 comments:
The Lady in the Tower is a wonderful young adult historical novel.
Very intriguing book! Set in sixteenth century Venice, politics and social class play a large role in this storyline.
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