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House of Honor: The Heist of Caravaggio’s Nativity
Two Italian sons, linked by a masterpiece painting, are put to a test of loyalty and honor.
At the heart of this gripping tale is Orazio Bordoni, the wayward son of a construction magnate, living a reckless life like that of his artistic hero Caravaggio. He finds himself befriended by Nicolo Giotto, the devoted son of a powerful Sicilian mafia clan, who wants to uphold the honor of his family.
As the dark underbelly of the art world and the Vatican expose their true character, Orazio finds himself in a world where his loyalty is tested, honor is at stake, and the boundaries between life and art blur. He and Nicolo discover just how far they're willing to push those boundaries, even if it means sacrificing everything else.
House of Honor is a pivotal story that weaves the threads of history, the ruthless allure of the mafia, the enigmatic power of the Vatican, and the timeless brilliance of Caravaggio.
Endorsements
“House of Honor captivated me from the first page to the last. Philbrick will transport you to the Italy of the 1960s and the Renaissance era. . . . It is reminiscent of The Godfather meets The Da Vinci Code, but with a redemptive twist. Masterfully crafted and beautifully written!”
Taryn R. Hutchison
Author of One Degree of Freedom and Two Lights of Hope
“House of Honor depicts the richness of the Italian people . . . all presented with contrast, perspective, depth, and color similar to what one experiences in the presence of a Caravaggio painting. But instead of brushes and oils, she uses words.”
Ram Rojas
Venezuelan-born painter and muralist
“The title of House of Honor hints at the dark backdrop for this suspenseful tale . . . I can tell you that you won’t be left in the cold at the glorious close (but wait for it!)”
Dee Brestin
Best-selling author of The Friendships of Women, Idol Lies, and Falling in Love with Jesus
“This book has art, history, romance, and an exotic setting filled with intrigue set against the story of one of the greatest painters of all time. . . . This is a highly recommended, well-written must-read...”
Angela Correll
Best-selling author of May Hollow Trilogy and Restored in Tuscany
“In House of Honor, Philbrick uses the uniquely powerful bonds of Italian families to reveal the effects of loyalty versus disloyalty in the complicated yet beautiful world of Italy. It’s . . . a story of the ever-present prodigal in all of us. Bravissimo!”
Katherine James
Award-winning author of Can You See Anything Now? and A Prayer for A Son’s Addiction and a Mother’s Love
“House of Honor is a sweeping, modern twist on an enduring narrative. . . . The depth of historical and art research in the novel is amazing; the romance and intrigue in the book will keep you turning the pages!”
Rhona Weaver
Award-winning author of A Noble Calling and A Sacred Duty
“With a fast-paced narrative and tense family drama throughout, House of Honor offers readers a compelling storyline about the heist of a renowned Caravaggio painting. . . .
At the heart of this gripping tale is Orazio Bordoni, the wayward son of a construction magnate, living a reckless life like that of his artistic hero Caravaggio. He finds himself befriended by Nicolo Giotto, the devoted son of a powerful Sicilian mafia clan, who wants to uphold the honor of his family.
As the dark underbelly of the art world and the Vatican expose their true character, Orazio finds himself in a world where his loyalty is tested, honor is at stake, and the boundaries between life and art blur. He and Nicolo discover just how far they're willing to push those boundaries, even if it means sacrificing everything else.
House of Honor is a pivotal story that weaves the threads of history, the ruthless allure of the mafia, the enigmatic power of the Vatican, and the timeless brilliance of Caravaggio.
Endorsements
“House of Honor captivated me from the first page to the last. Philbrick will transport you to the Italy of the 1960s and the Renaissance era. . . . It is reminiscent of The Godfather meets The Da Vinci Code, but with a redemptive twist. Masterfully crafted and beautifully written!”
Taryn R. Hutchison
Author of One Degree of Freedom and Two Lights of Hope
“House of Honor depicts the richness of the Italian people . . . all presented with contrast, perspective, depth, and color similar to what one experiences in the presence of a Caravaggio painting. But instead of brushes and oils, she uses words.”
Ram Rojas
Venezuelan-born painter and muralist
“The title of House of Honor hints at the dark backdrop for this suspenseful tale . . . I can tell you that you won’t be left in the cold at the glorious close (but wait for it!)”
Dee Brestin
Best-selling author of The Friendships of Women, Idol Lies, and Falling in Love with Jesus
“This book has art, history, romance, and an exotic setting filled with intrigue set against the story of one of the greatest painters of all time. . . . This is a highly recommended, well-written must-read...”
Angela Correll
Best-selling author of May Hollow Trilogy and Restored in Tuscany
“In House of Honor, Philbrick uses the uniquely powerful bonds of Italian families to reveal the effects of loyalty versus disloyalty in the complicated yet beautiful world of Italy. It’s . . . a story of the ever-present prodigal in all of us. Bravissimo!”
Katherine James
Award-winning author of Can You See Anything Now? and A Prayer for A Son’s Addiction and a Mother’s Love
“House of Honor is a sweeping, modern twist on an enduring narrative. . . . The depth of historical and art research in the novel is amazing; the romance and intrigue in the book will keep you turning the pages!”
Rhona Weaver
Award-winning author of A Noble Calling and A Sacred Duty
“With a fast-paced narrative and tense family drama throughout, House of Honor offers readers a compelling storyline about the heist of a renowned Caravaggio painting. . . .
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2024
22 people are currently reading
2905 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Ann Philbrick
7 books28 followersMargaret Ann Philbrick is an award winning poet and author. Her new art heist novel, House of Honor - the Heist of Caravaggio’s Nativity has been described by Midwest Book Review as an “Exquisite dance between cultures, underworld influences, and art world politics that will thoroughly immerse readers.” Her first novel, A Minor: A Novel of Love, Music, and Memory received critical praise from Kirkus as an “emotional story with nuanced characters that breaks the mold.” She is the contributing editor of Everbloom: Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives, a collection of essays and poetry for women by women. Her poems and articles have been featured in numerous anthologies and publications, including Christianity Today, Relevant, The Redbud Hyphen, and Patheos. Her Christmas book, Back to the Manger, created in collaboration with her mother, has become a holiday classic. Margaret is a founding member of the Redbud Writers Guild NFP and a member of the Door County Published Author Collective. You can connect with her via her website, www.margaretphilbrick.com, on Instagram @margaretannphilbrick and at www.whostolethepainting.com
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 16, 2024
“House of Honor” is a beautiful novel, brimming with exquisite descriptions of art and Italian life, while telling the compelling and evocative story of Orazio Bordoni. The story follows Orazio, a young man who forsakes his family to pursue his passion for the arts, only to find himself entangled with a Sicilian mafia family, and facing the moral dilemma of what price he is ultimately willing to pay for his art and for kinship.
Orazio's involvement with this mafia family adds a gripping layer of tension and intrigue. The patriarch's assertion that “Blood makes you related, but loyalty makes you family” serves as a powerful test and forces Orazio to confront the true meanings of loyalty, honor and family bonds. The moral and ethical dilemmas Orazio faces are compelling and resonate deeply.
Margaret Philbrick’s intimate knowledge of Caravaggio's work is a standout feature of this novel. Cleverly, interwoven personal “notes” scattered throughout the book provide fascinating insights into what influenced Caravaggio and what drove him to paint. These notes offer a deeper understanding of the complex emotions and historical context behind each masterpiece. Illustrations of the referenced paintings are included, further enriching the experience, making the art come alive on the pages.
The vivid portrayal of Italy is yet another highlight of this book. The author captures the essence of Italy’s rich cultural tapestry, its beauty and its timeless artistic legacy. And as with Philbrick’s other book, “Minor: A Novel of Love, Music & Memory”, her characters are well-developed, each one crafted with care and depth, allowing us to really know the characters and leaving us wanting more.
House of Honor beautifully intertwines the complexity of human relationships with the sublime beauty of Italian art and scenery. It’s moving and insightful and will have you reaching for her first book where she skillfully and beautifully writes about music and memory.
Orazio's involvement with this mafia family adds a gripping layer of tension and intrigue. The patriarch's assertion that “Blood makes you related, but loyalty makes you family” serves as a powerful test and forces Orazio to confront the true meanings of loyalty, honor and family bonds. The moral and ethical dilemmas Orazio faces are compelling and resonate deeply.
Margaret Philbrick’s intimate knowledge of Caravaggio's work is a standout feature of this novel. Cleverly, interwoven personal “notes” scattered throughout the book provide fascinating insights into what influenced Caravaggio and what drove him to paint. These notes offer a deeper understanding of the complex emotions and historical context behind each masterpiece. Illustrations of the referenced paintings are included, further enriching the experience, making the art come alive on the pages.
The vivid portrayal of Italy is yet another highlight of this book. The author captures the essence of Italy’s rich cultural tapestry, its beauty and its timeless artistic legacy. And as with Philbrick’s other book, “Minor: A Novel of Love, Music & Memory”, her characters are well-developed, each one crafted with care and depth, allowing us to really know the characters and leaving us wanting more.
House of Honor beautifully intertwines the complexity of human relationships with the sublime beauty of Italian art and scenery. It’s moving and insightful and will have you reaching for her first book where she skillfully and beautifully writes about music and memory.
October 7, 2025
3.5 Stars but I round up because she’s a local author.
I enjoyed this book, not so much for the story which is modern fiction (a genre I usually don’t care for) but for the references. The many untranslated Italian phrases in the book made me excited to utilize my Italian, the references to various Caravaggio and Raphael artworks had me recalling my days studying Art and Architecture in Rome where I was fortunate to see many of these works in person and learn about Caravaggio’s unique life. As a Catholic, I also loved the characters who had ties to the Vatican and the many religious themes and references in the book such as the prodigal son parable, the sacrament of Reconciliation/ Confession, and prayer and feast day mentions. These little “Easter eggs” kept me far more engaged than the story itself.
The story is pretty good but it’s nothing special. It utilizes a lot of storytelling tropes like the “godfather esc mafia boss,” “perfectly beautiful girlfriend,” “morally gray but cool mafia kid.” It follows these characters and how they relate to the robbery of Carravagio’s nativity painting. Though as I generally dislike modern fiction due to its oversimplified language, tropes, and lack of literary “meat,” this is just my preference. If you like modern fiction, you may have a different opinion.
Overall, I appreciated the research and Easter eggs sprinkled in, the story was surface level and light but unoffensive enough so if your like me and dislike modern fiction, at least you can read this book for some fun Italian, Art History, and religious nods
I enjoyed this book, not so much for the story which is modern fiction (a genre I usually don’t care for) but for the references. The many untranslated Italian phrases in the book made me excited to utilize my Italian, the references to various Caravaggio and Raphael artworks had me recalling my days studying Art and Architecture in Rome where I was fortunate to see many of these works in person and learn about Caravaggio’s unique life. As a Catholic, I also loved the characters who had ties to the Vatican and the many religious themes and references in the book such as the prodigal son parable, the sacrament of Reconciliation/ Confession, and prayer and feast day mentions. These little “Easter eggs” kept me far more engaged than the story itself.
The story is pretty good but it’s nothing special. It utilizes a lot of storytelling tropes like the “godfather esc mafia boss,” “perfectly beautiful girlfriend,” “morally gray but cool mafia kid.” It follows these characters and how they relate to the robbery of Carravagio’s nativity painting. Though as I generally dislike modern fiction due to its oversimplified language, tropes, and lack of literary “meat,” this is just my preference. If you like modern fiction, you may have a different opinion.
Overall, I appreciated the research and Easter eggs sprinkled in, the story was surface level and light but unoffensive enough so if your like me and dislike modern fiction, at least you can read this book for some fun Italian, Art History, and religious nods
February 15, 2025
Overall rating: 4.5/5
House of Honor is a very unique story in the realm of dark academia. Beginning with Orazio’s departure from his family’s quarry business allows Philbrick to dive immediately into the story. European settings and descriptions of beautiful art and museums add prevalent imagery, while the pacing and scattered action scenes evolve the plot and characters.
The characters are likable yet appropriately flawed. I loved Orazio and his determination to follow his dream of studying art while working tirelessly to build a great future for himself and Lena. Philbrick makes their relationship interesting by hiding Lena’s true identity from the reader and characters, which kept me on edge as the reveal developed.
At various times, I felt like there was foreshadowing, yet these ultimately led nowhere or were never mentioned again. I felt like there were plenty of instances where the story could have developed on these and ultimately been longer, but the length and pacing of the book were still appropriate.
House of Honor is a very unique story in the realm of dark academia. Beginning with Orazio’s departure from his family’s quarry business allows Philbrick to dive immediately into the story. European settings and descriptions of beautiful art and museums add prevalent imagery, while the pacing and scattered action scenes evolve the plot and characters.
The characters are likable yet appropriately flawed. I loved Orazio and his determination to follow his dream of studying art while working tirelessly to build a great future for himself and Lena. Philbrick makes their relationship interesting by hiding Lena’s true identity from the reader and characters, which kept me on edge as the reveal developed.
At various times, I felt like there was foreshadowing, yet these ultimately led nowhere or were never mentioned again. I felt like there were plenty of instances where the story could have developed on these and ultimately been longer, but the length and pacing of the book were still appropriate.
June 11, 2024
House of Honor captivated me and transported me to Italy in the 1960s and the Renaissance era. Philbrick's writing is lyrical and the story is redemptive. If you love art, you'll love the reproductions of Caravaggio's masterpieces. I highly recommend this book!
July 14, 2024
Now I want to go to Italy and tour art museums! Richly detailed and redemptive.
August 3, 2024
This is the longest review I’ve written so please bear with me.
This book was a genre I never would’ve chosen to read on my own but art mixed with the Sicilian mafia, the Vatican and the prodigal son had me interested from the beginning! I had to know how the author was going to weave all this light and dark together and form a story of redemption.
The storyline flowed, keeping me engaged and wondering what was going to happen next. It took me into the lives of Italians and those in the Catholic religion. I am not a Catholic so it was interesting to me. however, there were a few areas that weren’t Biblical. I’m not one to argue religious beliefs but for me the Bible is the baseline upon which those beliefs are tested, and some statements within the story didn’t ring true.
Also, as a Christian fiction book a few elements seemed unnecessary. I can understand Orazio’s lifestyle choices written in given the parallels to the prodigal son and some of Orazio’s promiscuity and other actions could’ve been what the prodigal son did. but one thing I didn’t get were the many references to nudity, sexually provocative art or sculptures depicting rape. I didn’t see how some of these were necessary or glorified God, especially “Giotto’s girls” and the scene where he seems to be lusting and fantasizing about them. I get that the mafia life and historical art were depicted throughout but this seemed a bit much at times.
Also, although it was beautifully done, I felt there could’ve been a greater impact made with the gospel when Orazio went home and was received with open arms. Orazio briefly mentions that he realizes God loves him and he’s ready to confess his sins. However, I feel the impact could’ve been greater if there was some inner monologue written in perhaps as he was walking down the road to his father’s house and realizes how wrong his sinful life was and turns to Gods in repentance. This would’ve given him some time to really grasp (and show the reader) God’s love, grace, and forgiveness through Jesus, and how he now realizes God was waiting for him just as His family would be waiting for him to return home. There was a hint of this at the very end of the “behind the book” section but not within the actual story. My feedback for this would be if there’s an opportunity to tell the gospel, take it and drive it home (no pun intended).
Overall I enjoyed this book; it was well written with the perfect amount of storytelling, history, intrigue, and even a few suspenseful moments. There was sorrow and joy, brokenness and healing through forgiveness. I could feel Orazio’s sorrow at the end yet also felt his family’s love and grace bestowed upon him. It was beautifully done and that part brought me to tears.
This book was a genre I never would’ve chosen to read on my own but art mixed with the Sicilian mafia, the Vatican and the prodigal son had me interested from the beginning! I had to know how the author was going to weave all this light and dark together and form a story of redemption.
The storyline flowed, keeping me engaged and wondering what was going to happen next. It took me into the lives of Italians and those in the Catholic religion. I am not a Catholic so it was interesting to me. however, there were a few areas that weren’t Biblical. I’m not one to argue religious beliefs but for me the Bible is the baseline upon which those beliefs are tested, and some statements within the story didn’t ring true.
Also, as a Christian fiction book a few elements seemed unnecessary. I can understand Orazio’s lifestyle choices written in given the parallels to the prodigal son and some of Orazio’s promiscuity and other actions could’ve been what the prodigal son did. but one thing I didn’t get were the many references to nudity, sexually provocative art or sculptures depicting rape. I didn’t see how some of these were necessary or glorified God, especially “Giotto’s girls” and the scene where he seems to be lusting and fantasizing about them. I get that the mafia life and historical art were depicted throughout but this seemed a bit much at times.
Also, although it was beautifully done, I felt there could’ve been a greater impact made with the gospel when Orazio went home and was received with open arms. Orazio briefly mentions that he realizes God loves him and he’s ready to confess his sins. However, I feel the impact could’ve been greater if there was some inner monologue written in perhaps as he was walking down the road to his father’s house and realizes how wrong his sinful life was and turns to Gods in repentance. This would’ve given him some time to really grasp (and show the reader) God’s love, grace, and forgiveness through Jesus, and how he now realizes God was waiting for him just as His family would be waiting for him to return home. There was a hint of this at the very end of the “behind the book” section but not within the actual story. My feedback for this would be if there’s an opportunity to tell the gospel, take it and drive it home (no pun intended).
Overall I enjoyed this book; it was well written with the perfect amount of storytelling, history, intrigue, and even a few suspenseful moments. There was sorrow and joy, brokenness and healing through forgiveness. I could feel Orazio’s sorrow at the end yet also felt his family’s love and grace bestowed upon him. It was beautifully done and that part brought me to tears.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2024
It doesn't seem quite right to use a cliche like "I couldn't put this novel down" when referring to a novel as brilliantly conceived and plotted as this one, but it's absolutely true. Once I began "House of Honor" I stayed up late several nights in a row until I finished. Philbrick's debut work has everything I want in fiction -- a compelling plot, original characters, and a storyline that is plausible without being predictable. Plus I learned so much about Italy, the Mafia, the Vatican, and what can happen to fine art when it's stolen. Underlying this multi-layered novel is a finely woven thread of unbreakable family bonds and spiritual redemption even in the midst of a son's agonizing rebellion and rejection. Highly recommended!
August 14, 2025
House of Honor: The Heist of Caravaggio's Nativity by Margaret Ann Philbrick is an artistic exploration of paintings.
Ah, but don't think of this as a tour through a gallery, although through this finely researched and crafted story, we learn a lot about the artist Caravattio. Philbrick hypes the story by infusing a tale of two sons, both loved by their father. One leaves his family to seek fortune, the other honors the family name. The story goes deeper when the wayward son is befriended by the son of a mafia leader. Now the story gets really interesting.
Complete with photos of the paintings, this story shows the allure of the mafia and the story of Caravaggio's Nativity.
Ah, but don't think of this as a tour through a gallery, although through this finely researched and crafted story, we learn a lot about the artist Caravattio. Philbrick hypes the story by infusing a tale of two sons, both loved by their father. One leaves his family to seek fortune, the other honors the family name. The story goes deeper when the wayward son is befriended by the son of a mafia leader. Now the story gets really interesting.
Complete with photos of the paintings, this story shows the allure of the mafia and the story of Caravaggio's Nativity.
June 4, 2024
I’ve rarely read a (long) book in one sitting, but I did with Margaret Philbrick’s House of Honor. My memories of Italy were refreshed with vivid descriptions and fascinating characters. Entering the world of Art and “meeting” Caravaggio captivated me. Intriguing tales of Cosa Nostra and the Vatican kept me reading. And most of all, the heart of this prodigal mama was both broken and hopeful. A wonderful book!!
Judy Douglass
Author, speaker, encourager
When You Love a Prodigal
Shaped by God: Words for Life
Judy Douglass
Author, speaker, encourager
When You Love a Prodigal
Shaped by God: Words for Life
June 10, 2024
House of Honor is a unique retelling of the parable of the prodigal son and the life of Caravaggio told in multiple layers including full color reproductions of Caravaggio paintings. I most enjoyed the vivid characters, and I was blown away by how well-researched the book was. As in a Caravaggio painting, Margaret Philbrick deftly captures both the darkness and grit of the mafia and the light of love in the Bordoni family. House of Honor is perfect for lovers of historical fiction, Italy, art, family stories, and crime thrillers.
October 18, 2025
I wasn’t sure about this book when I first started reading it. I had a hard time connecting with the characters. I didn’t think any of them had any redeemable qualities. As I kept reading, I enjoyed watching each character develop in such a sweet way. And the characters that were corrupt and questionable became even more so as I continued reading. I saw hints toward the prodigal son story and was so pleased to see those hints come to fruition. I love how this author told a modern day prodigal story with so many creative characters and with so much historical drama.
June 13, 2024
House of Honor is a beautiful twist on a classic story. If you love art, Italy, architecture, romance, historical fiction, suspense, mystery, or any combination of those, this book is for you. With brush strokes similar to Rembrandts painting of the Prodigal Son, Philbrick weaves the relationships of son to father, father to son, brothers, friends, and what family ties and truth mean through the retellings of fictionalized histories of Art and Mafia that connect over 350 years. Throughout the novel, the characters mirror universal human struggles as he/she searches for meaning in the material and spiritual underpinnings of a beautifully broken world, creating space to cheer, and cajole, and question each motive because we understand what it means to make hard decisions and the ever present want to belong in a world we all too often seek to shape into our own wants.
June 10, 2024
“House of Honor” drew me and would not let me go! As a lover of art, it made the brush strokes of Caravaggio leap off the page. As a history buff, it broadened my perspectives on the Mafia and the Vatican. As an Italian-American, it deepened my love for my culture, family, food, and country. And as a woman of faith, it reminded me that prodigals can be welcomed home.
June 11, 2024
House of Honor presents a multi-layered tale full of intrigue and suspense combined with a modern retelling of the parable of the prodigal son. In the process you learn more about the Renaissance artist Caravaggio and the Sicilian underworld of the 1960s. Author Margaret Philbrick weaves all these seemingly disparate elements into a fascinating and satisfying story.
June 14, 2024
What a great book! You don't need to be an art enthusiast to love this spin on the mystery of Caravaggio's missing "Nativity," but art history lovers will especially appreciate this book. The characters are complex and colorful. And I loved getting to see a side of the Vatican that I was not familiar with. Highly recommend!
November 13, 2025
This is a fascinating book! I was impressed by its intricate plot and well-developed characters. The way multiple storylines converged so seamlessly was remarkable. The complexities of Orazio, Nicolo, and Vincenzo were compelling, and the Caravaggio paintings, with their own storyline, added depth and context throughout.
August 22, 2024
Interesting story surrounding theft of Caravaggio’s adoration of the nativity. Ended quickly and a bit contrived given orazio’s character…but redemptive as a “prodigal son”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
I enjoyed the book. Appreciated the research made by the author and thought use of the paintings were helpful.
June 12, 2024
"House of Honor" is a thrilling novel about two Italian sons, Orazio Bordoni and Nicolo Giotto, connected by a masterpiece painting. Orazio, the wild son of a construction magnate, and Nicolo, the loyal son of a mafia family, form an unlikely friendship tested by betrayal and deception.
The book dives into the dark side of the art world and the Vatican, with detailed and engaging descriptions. The tension keeps building, and the story explores deep themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice, making you reflect on your own values.
Though some twists are predictable, the strong characters and immersive setting make up for it. "House of Honor" is a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and thrillers, blending art history, mafia intrigue, and Vatican secrets into a riveting tale.
The book dives into the dark side of the art world and the Vatican, with detailed and engaging descriptions. The tension keeps building, and the story explores deep themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice, making you reflect on your own values.
Though some twists are predictable, the strong characters and immersive setting make up for it. "House of Honor" is a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and thrillers, blending art history, mafia intrigue, and Vatican secrets into a riveting tale.
June 2, 2025
House of Honor by Margaret Ann Philbrick a historical thriller set in Italy. Margaret touts the book as a Godfather meets The Da Vinci Code but with a redemptive twist. I tout it as a book I couldn't put down!
Orazio Bordoni is a son of a construction magnate - but he wants nothing more than to be an artist. So, he leaves home and follows on a similar path as Caravaggio - a 16th century artist very much admired by Orazio. Before long, Orazio is caught up in slimy Vatican politics, the Sicilian mafia, and a lover with a powerful political father.
What starts out as a "job" turns into a test - one where he must prove his loyalty to the mafia. Will Orazio lose his family? His lover? His friends? His art? His life? The tale twists and turns, often leaving the reader breathless.
Margaret does an amazing job helping the reader experience the underbelly of Italy while exposing us to the world of art - all while keeping us guessing as to what will happen next. If you like a good thriller, then you'll love House of Honor.
Orazio Bordoni is a son of a construction magnate - but he wants nothing more than to be an artist. So, he leaves home and follows on a similar path as Caravaggio - a 16th century artist very much admired by Orazio. Before long, Orazio is caught up in slimy Vatican politics, the Sicilian mafia, and a lover with a powerful political father.
What starts out as a "job" turns into a test - one where he must prove his loyalty to the mafia. Will Orazio lose his family? His lover? His friends? His art? His life? The tale twists and turns, often leaving the reader breathless.
Margaret does an amazing job helping the reader experience the underbelly of Italy while exposing us to the world of art - all while keeping us guessing as to what will happen next. If you like a good thriller, then you'll love House of Honor.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews