Author: Amanda Dykes
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: December 13, 2022
Readers will enjoy not one, but two amazing stories surrounding the history of Venice, Italy.
One evening, a baby boy floating in a basket is discovered by a guildsman in the canals of Venice. Only a few meters away from fate turning him over to an orphanage, young Sebastian is raised by five artisans. As he grows up, he fears he will never discover who he truly is until a chance encounter on an island changes his life forever.
Many years later, Daniel Goodman is given the opportunity to turn his life around after some bad choices give him a prison sentence. Now a free man, but saddled with personal guilt that keeps him paying penance to those he hurt, he is tasked to go to Venice, Italy to discover the full translation of the Book of Waters as well as sketch many of the historical artifacts for a man’s vision to bring part of Venice to California. Upon his arrival in Venice, he meets Vittoria, the local bookkeeper, who assist him in both his personal and professional journey.
This is the first book that I have read by Amanda Dykes and she amazed me from the beginning of the book to the end. I couldn’t decide which story I loved more, that of Sebastian or Daniel. And once the stories collided, it simply took off. I love to read about well-known places that I’ve never been or expect to visit except through my mind’s eye. My favorite character by far was Vittoria. She was such a gust of wind that I wasn’t sure if I would be able to keep up with her, but soon discovered we were kindred spirits. I love it when a book has that ability. I recommend this to readers who enjoy Italian history and just an overall great story!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
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