I picked up this book as an easy read during downtime while traveling and working. It turned out to be a book I had a hard time putting down. So much detail, so many stories, so much intrigue and interesting plots. With that said, it should have been 2 or 3 separate books. Quite a few times I felt the story was rushed and too predictable, offering conclusions that were too convenient for very complex and sticky situations. I would have gladly read this in multiple parts in order to have received this gorgeous scenery and storytelling properly. I felt it was too ambitious by reaching in so many directions at once without fully clarifying or resolving any of them. Overall, I enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to readers who enjoy historical fiction. Set in the early 1700's in Siena, the centerpiece of this book is the famous horse race, the Palio. Pia, the daughter of one of the key families of the city is shocked when she finds out that she is to be married outside of her district. When she meets the young man, who is to race in the Palio, she wishes that he will die in the dangerous race. When a chain reaction occurs during the race, one rider, Ricardo, gives up his opportunity to ride out for the win to try to save the life of Pia's fiance. After the race, Pia is shocked to find out that she will have to marry the younger son, and even more odious character. Ricardo is brought in to be thanked for his efforts, but he is drawn into an ugly situation with the murder of the rider who initiated the deadly accident. He discovers a treacherous plot against the Governess of Siena and must decide whose side he is on and what he will do about his feelings for Pia. The plot thickens as intrigues abound and the Governess calls in aid from her family which may do more harm than good. While Pia took the lead in the story, the central character is really Ricardo. It was an interesting story, but overly dramatic at times.
What do You think about The Daughter Of Sienna (2011)?
Didn't grab me in the first 100 pages so I just stopped reading it because I had no interest
—brooke
Fun and romantic,but a bit predictable. A fun(sorry to use the word again) summer read.
—Tyler
it was not as good as i thought it would be
—cutrix
