I don't often read historical fiction so was surprised at how much I enjoyed this story of two orphan sisters in 18th century Venice. The story begins in the Pieta, an unusual orphanage oriented towards musical training at the highest level where Chiaretta and Maddalena, abandoned at birth, must find their way in a world of highly restricted choices for women. Enjoyed the re-imagining of the role of Vivaldi in the Pieta, and insights into marriage - Venetian style. This book covers the lifetime of two sisters growing up in 18th century Venice in the Ospidale Della pieta. Their thoughts mature with their aging and experiences and Laurel Corona keeps the story alive. Intimate portrayals of Vivaldi that brings him to life. I look forward to reading more Corona. Her works seem to focus on the stories of fictional women living in different periods of history. The female history we are still so lacking in.
An easy read, but I picked up a fair amount about women's lives in Vivaldi's time.
—lantre99
historical fiction,Vivaldi,four seasons,Venice,18th century,strong heroines,{ARC}
—anou1171
very interesting to learn more about that time in Venice
—Zed
(skim for how she does the two sisters narratives)
—davidxsxs
This was an excellent book, that left me in tears.
—Aysia