Intrigue and secrets,treachery and betrayal, love and revenge. Plus,a fascinating glimpse into the art of glassblowing. This wonderful novel has it all.
For centuries Venice held the secret of glassmaking, and supplied all Europe with glass. She guarded the secet well. Glassblowers were confined to the island of Murano, across the lagoon from the city. This was not only a precaution against fire, but also protection of the monopoly.
Glassblowers were treated well and lived in comfort, but only a rare few ever gained permission to leave the island. And, to breathe the merest whisper about their art to an outsider meant certain death.
In The Glassblower of Murano
He was reputed to have been the greatest glass artist who ever lived, with marvelous mirrors and chandeliers still gracing the palazzos of Venice.
She flees London for Venice after a divorce, hoping her connection with Corradino and her small skill with glass will gain her a place among the male-dominated glass works.
Leonora's illustrious name opens the door for her and she is hired as an apprentice glassblower. At first she is grudgingly accepted, but when her Botticelli looks give the factory owner the idea to use her in an ad campaign, ancient rivalries and accusations of treachery surface to menace her.
In her quest for information about Corradino, we enter the glittering, dangerous world of 17th century Venice. There are mysteries to unravel.
Was Corradino, as some allege, Venice's most heinous traitor? Was he the one who broke the Venetian hold on glass? Did he die an old man, or was he hunted down by Venetian assassins?
I loved how Leonora's story--complete with romance--and Corradino's amazing tale blend and complement each other. Modern day treachery and manipulation mirror the more deadly betrayals of the 17th century in elegant and surprising ways, as does devotion, friendship and true love in both times.
And I loved how Fiorato brings Venice alive. She draws vivid pictures of daily life in Venice, then and now.
Her portrait of Corradino was so compelling and seemingly true that you will want to learn more about this artist and his works. Unfortunately, as I discovered, Corradino Manin is completely fictitious.
This is a truly great read, with just the right amounts of history, mystery, suspense, and romance. I'm thinking of suggesting The Glassblower of Murano to my book group, and will add it to Time of Your Life Tours' list recommended books for Venice.
