Rated of 5
by Mary Lou C. (Shenandoah Junction, WV)
Predictable but goo
Sienna's Daughter was totally predictable. Still, I could not put it down. The author skillfully takes you back to a time so romantic yet so brutal. I felt as though I were there, within the walls of this ancient city. Well written, worth reading.
Rated of 5
by Susan S. (Middlebury, Connecticut)
The Daughter of Siena
I love this period in history, I love the city of Siena, so a combination of the two has to be a winner for me. Thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Rated of 5
by Joanne V. (Towanda, PA)
A fast, enjoyable read...
I really enjoyed this book and thought that the author's descriptions of Siena, the Palio, and especially the rivalries among the various contrada to be accurate and compelling. I have been to Siena and visited several of the contrada churches and learned the history of the Palio and how it is conducted. I loved the story and thought the author did a wonderful job of weaving the descriptions of Siena, the art, the horses, the race, the rivalries and throwing in the Medici curse, it made for a very enjoyable read!
Rated of 5
by Debra P. (Belmont, NC)
Love this book
I love historical fiction and this book has it all. There is romance, intrigue, historical accuracy...I really love it when I learn something about an era or culture at the same time I'm enjoying a good story..In particular, this author does a great job setting the scene with each chapter intro. I look forward to introducing this in our book group.
Rated of 5
by John W. (Clayton, Missouri)
Life & Love in 18th Century Siena
If you like historical fiction, traveled to Tuscany and found yourself wondering what life in Siena or the other walled towns was like during the 18th century then you’ll love this novel. The plot centers around the famous horserace in Siena, the Palio. It is a great love story in which the beautiful Pia falls in love for an unknown rider in the race although her father has made arrangements for her to marry another person that would benefit the family. A shocking event puts a quick end to the normal race festivities and the course of Pia's future. The remainder of the story is one of political intrigue and disappointed loves.
If you were hoping for upbeat and light writing of a romance novel then you’ll be disappointed – there are quite a few instances of the darker side of life. The author’s writing style might cause some readers concern – she switches back and forth between character’s perspectives.
I found just what I was looking for in this book – a glimpse of the good and bad of society in Siena during the 18th century. Once I started reading I was unable to put it down and read it through the night! Definitely a fan!
Rated of 5
by Peggy H. (North East, PA)
Looking for Romance?
As long as you aren't looking for deep thinking, complex, or esoteric...this book will fit the bill. It is everything a historic romance novel should be. Exotic well researched locale, evil villains, swooning heroes and heroines. A great quick read.
Rated of 5
by Lorraine R. (southampton, NY)
Italian horse races and ancient mysteries
Marina Fiorato successfully combines the mysteries of ancient tales with horse races in Palio, Italy, A forbidden romance and a believed dead noble son is thrown in for the historical romance lovers. The history of the town with its rival families and their extraordinary animal logos was fascinating. The battle between good and evil is fought out in the town square with the traditional horse race and its intrigues. The story moved well and the historical references to 16th century politics kept my interest. It was a fun read.
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of 5
by Mary Lou C. (Shenandoah Junction, WV)
