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Gail
Book of Unholy Mischief
Would appeal to students of the survival of knowledge through early Renaissance Inquisition. I preferred Susan Vreeland's period piece, Passion of Artemisia but enjoyed Newmark's familiarity with the architecture and byways of Venice and her interest in cooking. This would be good fodder for my book club. We'd like discussing the growth of Luciano's character and why the chef chose to mentor him.
Jean
The Book of Unholy Mischief
I enjoyed this book very much. It was a little slow starting, but became an "I don't want to put it down" book. The history in the story was very interesting. The 1500's was a time of intrigue and danger. Things that we take for granted (reading, buying books, etc) were rare in the time frame of the story. It made me more appreciative of being able to read and having books to read.
What could be better that a book about a book?
Jean
Venice is one of my favorite European cities!
Luciano, the main character, is appealing and sympathetic because of his loyalty and goodness towards both his human and feline companions. The author captures the special feeling of Venice through its food and by its architecture.
On the downside, there are a few parts where careful editing and cutting of wordiness would have benefited the flow of the story. As far as the central concern of the book, which is the secrets contained in the Book of Mischief, it promises more than it delivers. But overall it’s an engaging read.
Susan
The Book of Unholy Mischief
I enjoyed this book. It reminded me, in some ways, of another mystery set in modern times in the Middle East searching for a similar book.
One chapter (The Book of Amato) seemed out of place. Most of the story flowed forward and this one was the narrator suddenly as an adult talking to another about his maestro. While it helped to have more information about the maestro, it led me to expect more flashbacks.
A good book for Ms. Newmark's first novel.
Theresa
The Book Of Unholy Mischief
Author Elle Newmark brings to life 1498 Venice by stimulating the readers senses through poetic descriptions of the aromas, tastes and sounds of this ancient city. It is a story of a young, orphan beggar and his struggle to survive a world of mystery, murder and intrigue. The poverty of the street is balanced by glimpses into the world of the elite rich and reveal how they both need each other to survive. Luciano's journey out of poverty aided by a secret society is a story well told and an enjoyable read.
Susan
What a time and place to live
A time of guarding knowledge, intrigue and fear. Telling the story with food and food preparation in the fifteenth/sixteen centuries as the centerpiece was for me very interesting - consuming food is essential for survival, but can be much more. A book for those interested in reading about this time period, loyalty and food.
Lola, Readers Library, Central Library, Tulsa, OK
Book of Unholy Mischief
I read all types of books, but have a soft spot for historical fiction. This was a quick and easy read. If you love cooking/baking or even just eating food, this book will have you drooling. The author even cleverly slips in trivia about different dishes and ingredients to "spice" things up. The story itself was somewhat predictable, but was fairly fast- paced. I just wanted to shake the narrator, Luciano, and say "Wake up!!!". Could anyone be as naive as he and still be as street-smart as it was implied??!!! Not great literature but a fun read.
Kat
Poor to just okay at best
This book seemed very contrived as far as the plot was concerned and extremely improbable. Also, not sure it is historically accurate to the time period. The author threw in way too many different subjects without using or exploring them to any degree. I could have put this down at any time without hesitation.
