The Stone Witch of Florence (2024)

Hoping I can get an ARC of this one! Not me completely begging Harlequin Trade Publishing and Park Row!✨🙏🏻

If not, publication day cannot come soon enough!

Ahhhhhh!!! I GOT AN ARC!!!!! 😭🥹 Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing & Park Row!!! I can’t wait to DEVOUR this book. ✨🪄

Historical fiction meets fantasy - yes, please.

Super excited about this one!!!!! Please, please, pleaseeeee do not disappoint!

The Stone Witch of Florence is a medieval mystery featuring the magical healing powers of stones.

As the Black Plague rages on throughout Italy, Ginevra di Gasparo, an exiled stone witch, is summoned back to Florence to help heal the sick. To her surprise, once she arrives in Florence she is tasked with recovering stolen relics from the churches which are the city's only hope in warding off the plague. Using her gift as a gemstone healer, Ginevra will need to step out of her shadows and secrets and harness her magic to save the people of Florence. Striking a deal with the inquisitor, if she is able to recover the relics, she will be recognized as a doctor and have her witchcraft accusations removed. To clear her name once and for all, Ginevra is lured into a dark conspiracy that will force her to use her power of stones to not only save the relics, but herself.

I have been wanting to read a book about gemstone magic for years, and The Stone Witch of Florence did not disappoint. The history of gemstone lore sparkles and shines throughout this book. The ancient healing properties of stones and their magical uses were straight out of centuries old lapidary texts, so much so, that this book read like a medieval manuscript. The time and place of this story, 14th century Florence, was the perfect time period and location to set a book about gemstones since this was a huge part of the belief system, superstitions, and medicine at the time. Despite a large focus on church politics, the story was well balanced with occult elements, such as alchemy, astrology, and of course gemstone magic.

The story was bejeweled with Ginevra's stoicism, selflessness and witchy abilities which pulled me into her world making it feel as though I was there with her watching everything unfold. The hermetic and divine perspectives of gemstones were equally included in this story, with the complicated relationships between light and dark and the sacred and supernatural exploring the heretical and magical contentions of this craft.

If you enjoy historical fantasy novels, or loves crystals, this book is a must read. The author's passion for the subject shone through, emitting warmth and light like one of Ginevra's magical stones.

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Received this book as an ARC through my work.

I really, really enjoyed this book! The story grabbed my attention from the get-go, and the characters had good development for the story line without too much extra detail thrown in. There were humorous parts, and a lot of little clues dropped like bread crumbs that I didn't always pick up on at first, but then started to come together at the end.

Didn't guess the ending throughout the whole book, and the last 100 pages flew by there was so much action and intrigue. Definitely a must-read if you enjoy a witchy fiction book, especially a historical setting at that.

Ginerva di Gaspsro has a gift, she can heal the sick with her mystical powers from gemstones. She is condemned as a witch and is exiled from Florence. When the black plague hits she is summoned back to Florence. Upon returning, she is requested to track down a thief who is stealing relics from the churches of Florence.
The premise of the Stone Witch intrigued me. I couldn’t wait to read this book. I love Historical Fiction and mysteries.
I was captivated by the magic of the stones, but at times this story dragged on. I wasn’t that interested that much about the relics.
Anna Rasche did extensive research to transport her readers back to medieval Florence and the history of the stones. Her writing was beautiful. I felt though the ending was rushed and not satisfying.
Thank you to NetGalley and Park Row for this advanced copy of this book.

I’ll be honest I didn’t think I would be but I was super triggered by this book with my anxiety and OCD. I hyperfocus on certain things and viruses are it!

I truly wanted to enjoy this book too the concept was solid and it had me so intrigued. My brain could not look past the plague. That is one of my triggers. It was hard for me to read and not feel like I was about to spiral into a panic attack. This is all on me and no fault of the author at all! I read the description and thought why not give it a shot it sounds interesting.

What I was able to focus on i enjoyed. The pacing was interesting, it was fast then slow then picked up
in the last quarter of the book. It was a well researched and thorough book in regards the history, and world building. If you aren’t triggered by viruses absolutely read this book!

Thank you to NetGalley, Anna Rasche, and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the arc in exchange for an honest review! I wish I could’ve given a more in-depth review. I truly wanted to enjoy it but my anxiety too me out of the story.

Devoured this beauty — although admittedly it took me a minute to get into this writing style it’s worth it! Florence is one of my favorite places on the planet, and this book only heightened my love of Italy. Witchy books always top my TBR list and this one with rituals on malocchio and the story of how it was born and red coral + clever uses of numerology 😱🧿🤘 ayayayahhh —all the things! It’s absolute word smithing magic with crystal healing at its core. 🙌♥️💎

The Stone Witch of Florence was so beautiful in its friendships following along with the witch, Ginevra. She's witty and caring. I felt like I grew with her as she grew throughout the story. There were moments of laughter and moments of "what the hell", and I loved every moment!

When this book releases I definitely recommend buying it. The cover is beautiful and sprayed edging plus a wonderful fast read.

I want to thank Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row for this fantastic advance copy of The Stone Witch of Florence.

CM

#TheStoneWitchofFlorence #NetGalley

If you're a fan of Leigh Bardugo’s “The Familiar” and the Gael Song series by Shauna Lawless, then "The Stone of Witch" by Anna Rasche is a must-read. This captivating novel transports readers to Florence during the harrowing days of the Black Plague, blending rich historical detail with an enchanting story of magic and mystery.

Rasche’s vivid descriptions of Florence bring the city to life, and her research into the era and city of Florence is evident. My inner history nerd was thrilled by the number of times a Wikipedia search on my Kindle led me down a medieval Italy rabbit hole. I’ve never been to Florence, but I felt like I was there with the main character Ginvera! Seriously, I almost started craving plague remedies and Renaissance art.

Ginvera is a young witch navigating the perilous times of the plague, and her journey is filled with enough twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. The way Rasche weaves historical events with magical elements is nothing short of impressive. Think of it as a history lesson, but with more spells and fewer pop quizzes.

What I particularly enjoyed was the balance between historical accuracy and a gripping plot. The tension and suspense are palpable, and the magical elements are woven in so seamlessly that you’ll start believing in witchcraft. Plus, it's a lot less messy than trying to summon spirits yourself.

Overall, "The Stone of Witch" is a fantastic read that I highly recommend. Whether you're a history buff, a fantasy enthusiast, or simply looking for an engrossing story, this book has something for everyone. Anna Rasche has crafted a spellbinding tale that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Just don’t blame me if you start planning your next vacation to Florence!

A beautifully written novel, full of rich imagery, and complex characters. I love the blending of magical realism and historical fiction-the ravaging plague, describing the corruption of the higher officials in the Church of Rome, and the condemnation of so-called heretics/witches. Our protagonist, Ginevra, is a woman banished at the hands of powerful men, determined to root out evil. The author weaves her past and present story together to give us a complete story, and her growth from teenager to adult. She never loses her main attribute-compassion-but learns to harness it with wisdom. Her companions, Lucia, and unlikely ally, Michele-an inquisitor-play a crucial role in helping Ginevra conquer her past and help the citizens of her hometown, Florence. Rasche also gives us a villain who isn’t a true villain, adding to the overall story, and main plot line.

Strength, corruption, magic, power, death…they all come together perfectly in this novel. I didn’t want to put this one down.

Thank you NetGalley and Park Row for my ARC. My opinion is my own.

Somewhat entertaining tale of magic and religion during the plague in Medieval Italy. I enjoyed the humor dispersed throughout but the ending felt a little too silly. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Wow, this certainly was different from what I’ve been reading recently and I found that very refreshing! I love a good historical fiction book but this had an air of mystery that even when pacing was a little slow it kept me curious.

Set during the mid 1300’s Italy- Ginevra is a healer who finds herself being summoned back to Florence where she was formally exiled. After spending years away, alone in exile, she answers the city’s cry for help despite all the unknown ahead. Unbeknownst to her she is not there to cure the people but to help solve the thefts that have taken place. Many have succumbed to the Black Plague and the city needs her help with finding the local churches’ stolen relics, which are found to hold significant value in keeping people safe.

The writing was very readable, clear and descriptive. I enjoyed following Ginevra on her quest to find the stolen relics, manage the relationships she’s made and the overall theme of helping one another through difficult times.

I want to thank Park Row and NetGalley for providing me with access to this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

4.0. An enjoyable historical fiction novel about a young woman who has certain healing powers using stones and remedies in medieval Italy during the floods in Florence and later the plague, in Genoa and Florence, but who also was deemed a heretic by the religious authorities. A tale about her quest to redeem herself by looking for stolen relics from churches in Florence. The novel has a bit of Alice Hoffmans magical side with a strong woman as the protagonist. A very engaging tale. Thank you to Netgalley for providing me an advance copy in exchange for a candid and unbiased review.

Historical fiction with a bit of magic and mystery thrown in! Set during the Black Plague, an exiled witch, Ginevra, is called back to Florence to determine who is stealing the relics of the many churches there. As death envelops the city, Ginevra pieces together the mystery and tries to help those she can with her magic stones and witchcraft. She finds help in unlikely places and is hindered by unexpected villains. I found it to be an engaging and VERY well researched read. Highly recommend!

This book was part witchy fantasy, and part historical fiction, and I absolutely loved the journey it took me on.
Filled with magic, mystery, healing stones, and all kinds of witchy goodness, the story kept me engaged from page one, and I found myself rooting for the FMC, Ginerva, every step of the way.
The writing was absolutely beautiful, and I was blown away by the character development, the effortless dialogue, and spot-on pacing of the story. Definitely put this on your list, especially if you’re looking forward to diving into a good witchy story, with lots of heart.

Thank you to NetGalley, and Harlequin Trade Publishing, for this advanced reader copy.

If you enjoyed Leigh Bardugo's The Familiar, I highly suggest preordering this one! It was such a fabulously researched book set in 1348 during the Black Death--made even more relatable having gotten through covid. Rasche included charming old idioms she found in medieval texts that added so much to the story of relics and the tangled way magic and religion and medicine all jumbled together in the fourteenth century.

Ginevra is such an amazing character that I would follow her anywhere through a plague-ridden Italy. Five red coral amulets for this magnificent historical fantasy.

The Stone Witch of Florence who is also known as Ginevra. This is her story of how she became The Stone Witch and her quest to find the missing relics from all of the churches during the black plague is nothing short of a miracle to have a banished woman come to the rescue of the blessed relics.
Anna Rasche really constructed a fascinating story and the characters were rich and interesting, every detail added to this reading adventure and I definitely recommend this !
4.5 magical stars ( or stones)

The premise of this book caught my attention immediately, but the execution just wasn't there. This felt jokey, but solemn at the same time. The inquisitor felt like a Monty Python character. I had a really difficult time getting through this book as it changed tones so frequently.

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!

The premise of The Stone Witch of Florence by Anna Rasche captivated me immediately - Ginevra di Gaspara is a witch in 1348 - gifted with the power of gemstones to heal the sick which comes in handy as the Black Plague ravages Italy!

When I started reading this book I was all in and convinced it was going to be a five star book that I fell in love with - the beginning was so strong and captivating however as the story went on I started to lose interest and felt the story was dragging. I didn’t realize I would become so triggered by the events of the plague and the constant deaths - especially dying children. There is some humor throughout the book that helped me get through it, but overall I’d say it’s rather depressing. The ending left so much to be desired, I was let down.

I would definitely read more from Anna Rasche and I think I would recommend this book to lovers of the witchy supernatural who enjoy historical fiction and don’t mind being sad - because I promise you this is a SAD book.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my review.

I absolutely inhaled this novel in two nights. I highly recommend that you read The Stone Witch of Florence when it is released on October 8th, 2024.

I loved the interweaving of fantasy, religious themes, and stone based magic in this medieval quest. Even though the era and setting of this novel were sad and serous, the humor and pacing were incredibly engaging.

While there are moments of romance interwoven into the story, the relationships that were my favorite centered female friendship.

I also loved the afterword by Anna Rasche which explained her extensive research, inspiration, and the true elements of the story. So cool!

This is a must read for lovers of historical fiction , fantasy, witches, crystals, Italian culture, and divine justice;)

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via in exchange for an honest review.

Ringrazio immensamente NeoN libri per avermi concesso di leggere in anteprima questo piccolo gioiello storico/fantasy!
Tramite la protagonista Ginevra vivremo una delle epoche più scure della storia medievale: gli anni della peste.
La protagonista, nella sua posizione poco favorevole da strega esiliata, dovrà lottare con tutta sé stessa per riuscire a salvare Firenze dalla peste, ma non solo, qualcuno sta cercando di dare il colpo di grazia alla città rubando tutte le reliquie dei Santi. Ginevra avrà dalla sua parte solo un elemento per questa missione: le sue pietre magiche.
Ho amato il libro non solo per la trama molto originale, ma anche per la capacità della protagonista di farmi rivivere con valide descrizioni una città che io amo immensamente.
Inoltre ho apprezzato come l'autrice sia riuscita a gestire un periodo storico così complesso senza rendere la storia troppo banale o assurda.
Molto bella anche la volontà di non cadere nel solito cliché in cui la magia è opposta alla religione, ma che in qualche modo ci sia tra di esse una sorta di rispetto.
Lo consiglio veramente tanto a chi ama il genere...e chi lo sa...per questo titolo ci vedrei bene anche un sequel ;)

ARC Review-

We enter the story with Ginerva, an exiled witch with the enhanced ability to feel the universe around her and use gemstones to aid her work as a healer. Her services are later required back in the same community that had exiled her so many years prior, when the plague tears through sparing nothing in its path, inviting new levels of crime to the city. With the opportunity to clear her name and have the exile rescinded, she sets forth to solve a series of thefts with little but her wits and precious stones.

I loved this one! This story gripped me from the very beginning. It had me laughing and also had me at near tears. I spent the whole novel trying to piece together the clues, along with Ginerva, to figure out this grand mystery and was very surprised by the plot twists. I loved the relationships she made along the way, and how she had a way of healing some bit of trauma in her new companions even without the actual act of healing with stones. Ginerva di Gasparo is a fierce FMC and I am so glad I got to read about her journey and her life in this novel.

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

A compelling historical fiction set dead center during the Black Death, starring Ginevra di Gasparo - our “witch” who has been exiled from Florence. However, circ*mstances bring her back to the city during the heart of the plague, and she has to rely on her own unique abilities to try to solve the mystery of the missing relics. With these relics of the saints suddenly going missing, the city is left without any protection from death running through its streets and those in charge are desperate enough to ask a convicted “witch” for help solving it.

The beginning of this book has a few flashes back to Ginevra’s childhood and her time before her exile - giving us insight into her past and the conflict within her as she returns to Florence. This story is a battle between her innate desire to help people as much as she can - and the prosecution from the Church if she does too much. We see her grow from an idealistic child and young woman, to being an adult fully aware of the dangers she is placing on herself by doing these same acts once again.

I really loved how the “magic” in this novel was handled. Set between 1320-1348, we live in a world where both religion and folk magic live side by side, and both are used together to help those who need it. The concept of these stones having unique properties that can be used by someone with the power to is such a fun one, and despite the wide variety of gemstones listed throughout this novel I never had any difficulties keeping track.

While this book has just a few hints of romance sprinkled throughout, a much larger relationship present is between Ginevra and her newest friend Lucia, who she saves from the plague. Together, they must work together to solve the mystery of who (or what) exactly is stealing these precious relics, since no one else is either alive, or brave enough, to venture out into plague ridden streets to do it themselves. I really loved the friendship between these two women, and despite having very different lives and upbringings, they quickly become close and rely on one another to help survive, and solve, the mystery.

Up until the end, I had no idea how exactly this issue was going to be resolved, and I really enjoyed the conclusion. It was a fascinating look to see how things like legends and beliefs are created in both a religious context, as well as a personal belief - and how while one or another may be manipulated in some way, neither is truly “better” than the other.

This was a fun read, and I really enjoyed the journey throughout Florence it took me on throughout it (although, that journey involved a lot of corpses). It was interesting to read a book where the majority of the population have been decimated, and getting into the heads and beliefs of those who lived during that time. The mix of mythology and belief, and genuine fear, present throughout this book made it a fascinating setting as we followed Ginevra’s investigation, and all the danger it put her in.

A huge thank you to the author and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row for a digital copy of this book, as well as Goodreads for a physical copy in exchange for an honest review!

A delightful page turner and unique perspective on the time period!

This book started out really strong and I thought I was going to love it. I love how the story went back in forth from Ginevra's past and present so we were able to learn more about her and understand her better. However, the story started to drag about a third of the way through the book. The last 20%ish of the book really made up for it though. The humor throughout and towards the end of the book definitely helped to keep my attention though the slower parts of the story. 3.5⭐️ overall.

In medieval times, cures were frequently lucky discoveries or superstitions. During the Black Plague, many cities searched for cures. Florence had a multitude of churches dedicated to various saints. These saints were all said to help people with certain needs such as patience, health, childlessness, and other needs. Each church is supposed to have a relic for its particular saint within the church. Fabric from a tunic, hair, and a finger, are all examples of the types of relics found in the churches. Each church has a special location for its relic and is very proud of it. During the frightening Plague, people flocked to the churches hoping their prayers would keep them healthy.

When worship failed to produce the desired result, some people would turn to persons known by word of mouth to have special abilities. These persons would offer alternative healing. Ginevra di Gasparo is learning about cures from the local healer. During training, Ginevra is discovered to be able to use gemstones to evoke healing. Her mentor warns her to keep her powers hidden, but Ginevra believes that her abilities are God-given and should be used for the good of all. The Bishop of Florence disagrees and banishes her from Florence. An envoy arrives to see Ginevra. The Bishop offers her welcome back to Florence if she will return to help with the plague. With her wish to return home granted, Ginevra goes to Florence. What she sees upon return is shocking. The Bishop renegotiates with Ginevra, tasking her with solving the theft of relics to remain in Florence.

Will Ginevra be able to untangle this mystery? She is alone and has been away from Florence for many years. In a city where the plague is rampant, would you want to be investigating anything? There is a reason that the Bishop doesn't investigate this himself. Ginevra is viewed as expendable. Anna Rasche's book illuminates the ignorance of medieval times, lack of proper hygiene, and disrespect of women. Set during the Black Plague, this story almost sounds horrific. Through deft writing, Anna Rasche develops a story that is full of interest. Each character adds an important element and combined with Ginevra's desire to return to the city she loves we have a solid foundation for this historical fantasy. This book moves slowly while introducing everyone but soon the action begins and it becomes hard to stop reading. Historical fiction, mystery, and fantasy lovers alike will enjoy this book.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin, and Anna Rasche for the advanced copy.

The Stone Witch of Florence is beautifully written. The characters are complex and fully realized and the imagery is outstanding. I felt like I was in the midst of the plague. I also loved the blending of magical realism and historical fiction. Magical stones and a protagonist who is adept at feeling what is needed. What the plague caused different characters to do felt very real, particularly when Rasche describes the corruption of higher officials in the Church of Rome, but still manages to make an Inquisitor a sympathetic character!

There is also the centuries old condemnation of heretics and witches. The protagonist, Ginevra, was banished at the hands of powerful men who claimed she was a witch despite the fact she was healing the citizens of Florence. Rasche weaves her past and present story together to give us a complete story from child to adult. Fortunately, Ginevra never loses her compassion and works hard to temper it with wisdom.

Called back to Florence to help the Bishop and Inquisitor discover who is stealing relics from the city’s churches, Ginevra befriends Lucia, who has been abandoned by her husband, and the Inquisitor, Michele, who is terrified of contracting the plague. Both Lucia and Michele and later, a couple of other friends play a crucial role in helping Ginevra conquer her past while helping the citizens of Florence. Rasche also gives us a villain who isn’t a true villain, adding to the overall story, and main plot line.

Reviewers Note: The Author’s Note is definitely worth reading! The amount of research Rasche did for this book is truly inspiring and her job as a gemologist and jewelry historian greatly add to the authenticity of the story.

Thoroughly enjoyed this enthralling debut novel! It embodies so many aspects that historical or fantasy readers absolutely love and ties them together beautifully! To do this, the author takes a horrific time in world history, sets the story in 14th century Florence, Italy, one of the most intriguing and rich cities of that era (or any, really), weaves a bit of ancient folklore and adds a touch of fantasy to create a riveting story. The history is spot on, the folklore is factual, but it is that little bit of fantasy that gives the book the magic that makes it resonate and keeps it enjoyable where others may become tedious.

Ginevra is a young lady who has been tortured, disfigured and banished for using "witchcraft" to help heal. Yet, when the Black Plague ravages Italy, the bishop of Florence remembers her and calls her back to help save the city. Admittedly, Ginevra is a gifted healer who uses the old legends that precede Christianity, to manipulate stones and gems in her work. This is made especially interesting as the author herself is a noted gemologist, making the plot ring real and bringing a depth and richness to the narrative. Then, the added and documented folklore is woven in to make the entire fantasy aspect shine, as it wraps the reader completely up in both the era and the intrigue.

Yes, there are a points that stretch believability and others that tip into the slightly confusing and somewhat silly, as Genevra races to the climax of the conflict. But, even with those small blips, the overall adventure twists and turns its way to a very happy and satisfied smile as the last page is turned.

Thanks to NetGalley for sending the Arc!

Thoughts: I found this story a little hard to get into, but once I did, it was fascinating, though a little slow at times for me. I did find it dragged a bit even though I liked the history mixed with mysticism. The imagery is amazing and the characters realistic - even for the era. This story takes place in the 1300s in Florence, Italy, during the height of the Black Plague. The main character, Ginevra, is a stone witch—someone who has an affinity with magic, especially gems. All she has wanted all her life is to be recognized by the guild of doctors as a healer. But women are not permitted to be doctors. So she stays in the shadows, helping those who come to her with her potions and magical lapidary (stone) applications. The story is heavily focused on church politics, but does a good job of adding in the elements of gemstone magic, alchemy, and more.

The author’s attention to detail as well as the extensive “author notes” at the back of the book show that she did her homework well. Her research is extensive and shows through with the knowledge of what a person in this time period would be up against, especially if thought to be a witch.

I liked the ending when the Inquisitor Michele and she become friends as they hunt for the lost relics and how, in the end, he accepts that God is working through her and helps her.

Recommended to those who enjoy a medieval tale of magic and the religious issues of the time.

Disclaimer: Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing this ARC. All thoughts are mine and are not influenced by anyone.

The Stone Witch of Florence is an enjoyable and complex historical fiction novel that follows its protagonist, Ginevra di Gasparo, during the time of The Plague in Florence, Italy. We meet Ginevra as a young girl in Genoa, around the year 1330. The historical background of her city and the things that changed during The Plague make a fascinating read. During this time, Ginevra attracts the attention of Monna Vermilia, a woman known for her special healing powers. Monna Vermilia helps Ginevra realize her unusual aptitude for working with magical gemstones and helping others. Eventually, Vermilia sends Ginevra off to work in a Florence nunnery, where she will be supervised by Vermilia’s sister. Unfortunately, Ginevra is eventually exiled as a witch, and returns to Genoa.

The next part of the story is a mystery, in which Ginevra is summoned back to Florence to help catch a thief who is stealing the relics out of village churches. In return, she is hoping to clear her name and to be recognized as a member of the Guild of Doctors, Apothecaries, and Grocers. The historical information about the relics and the guild is riveting, and so is the plot of this mystery.

The number of characters in this story and the development of their personalities were pleasing to me. I enjoyed their interaction and this mystery very much, and am thankful to Harlequin Trade Publishing for making this title available on Netgalley. In other words, I recommend this novel!

3-3.5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed reading this book but sadly I wasn’t super-wowed by it.

I liked how well the author balanced the historical fiction, mystery, and fantasy aspects of this book. That can be hard to do, and I think she did it well.

However, while I praise her for that, I think that’s exactly what preventing the story from wow-ing me. I wish she had leaned more heavily into one of those genres over the others as the balancing act didn’t seem to allow me to feel super involved in the story as I might have been if the mystery were deeper and more complex, the magic stones utilized even more, etc.

I also think trying to balance the genres prevented me from feeling like I knew the characters. For example, apparently Ginevra was the love of Ludovico’s life, but because we don’t get really long or deep scenes between them, the vibe I actually got was that he, the rich boy, was using her, essentially a servant, as a fling.

I did really enjoy Lucia and Becchino—I wish we had gotten more of them. (Becchino pretty much made the finale scene with his taunts and jokes towards the bishop lol.)

So while I enjoyed the story, I most likely won’t be buying the book when it comes out. However, if the author decides to write a series where Ginevra and Fra Michele solve mysteries together, sign me up!