This is a good modern Gothic romance. It is set in Italy and there is plenty of local color. There are misleading trails for the reader and for Kathy, a young widow trying to get over her guilt over her husband's death. I love the major characters, especially David who is a literature scholar, Pietro who is a young boy who lost his parents, and Contessa Morandini who enjoys her aristocratic lifestyle. Throw in glowering servants, a hunchback, and a slightly decaying mansion, and you have the perfect setting.

I think this book deserves four stars because the ending didn't really play fair with the reader. As Gothics so often don't, it shouldn't matter, but this one was a truly unexpected surprise. As there was the hint of the mystery genre in the book, I think I should have had more of a clue.

If you like Gothics, you should definitely try this one. It isn't a bad book, just not a terrific book that cannot be forgotten. ( )

I love this story and the terrific details. The story is set it Italy and the descriptions are incredible. Of course this is another great gothic story that will keep you on your toes. The main character is Kathy, who recenly lost her husband in a car accident. She goes to Italy where his family is hoping it will somehow hope her come to terms with the loss. There she finds out a secret that puts her life in danger. ( )