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Lady of Venice
From international bestselling author Siobhan Daiko comes a story that will transport you to Italy past and present.
Heartbroken after the loss of her fiancé, Fern travels to her aunt’s house in Italy to find peace and solace. There, overcome by the beauty of the landscape and consumed by a history she finds fascinating, she is catapulted into the life of the beautiful but reckless Cecilia, a sixteenth century lady of Venice.
The closer Fern comes to discovering why Cecilia appears to be pulling her back in time, the more echoes of the past reverberate in the present.
When past and present collide, throwing both Fern and Cecilia into deadly danger, can Fern stay safe and come to terms with her own past?
A breathtaking historical novel from a bestselling author, perfect for readers of Barbara Erskine, Sarah Dunant and Kate Mosse.
Praise for Siobhan '...like meeting an old, dear friend after a long absence. What a poignant, emotional, thoroughly enjoyable read this was! ... such beautiful prose and such a brilliant story that completely transported me.' Renita D'Silva
'an exciting, impeccably-researched wartime adventure with lots of heart ... the perfect mixture of tragedy and happiness' Reader review
'A beautiful story with a compelling historical storyline that you won’t want to put down’ Ann Bennett
’I was completely absorbed by … all the characters and intrigue’ Angela Petch
'A poignant and emotionally charged novel that explores the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity and I was hooked from start to finish' Reader review
'So much heartache but alongside this the love of the people who did so much in WWII' Reader review
'a powerful historical novel that I just could not put down' Reader review
Heartbroken after the loss of her fiancé, Fern travels to her aunt’s house in Italy to find peace and solace. There, overcome by the beauty of the landscape and consumed by a history she finds fascinating, she is catapulted into the life of the beautiful but reckless Cecilia, a sixteenth century lady of Venice.
The closer Fern comes to discovering why Cecilia appears to be pulling her back in time, the more echoes of the past reverberate in the present.
When past and present collide, throwing both Fern and Cecilia into deadly danger, can Fern stay safe and come to terms with her own past?
A breathtaking historical novel from a bestselling author, perfect for readers of Barbara Erskine, Sarah Dunant and Kate Mosse.
Praise for Siobhan '...like meeting an old, dear friend after a long absence. What a poignant, emotional, thoroughly enjoyable read this was! ... such beautiful prose and such a brilliant story that completely transported me.' Renita D'Silva
'an exciting, impeccably-researched wartime adventure with lots of heart ... the perfect mixture of tragedy and happiness' Reader review
'A beautiful story with a compelling historical storyline that you won’t want to put down’ Ann Bennett
’I was completely absorbed by … all the characters and intrigue’ Angela Petch
'A poignant and emotionally charged novel that explores the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity and I was hooked from start to finish' Reader review
'So much heartache but alongside this the love of the people who did so much in WWII' Reader review
'a powerful historical novel that I just could not put down' Reader review
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2025
254 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Siobhan Daiko
28 books321 followersSiobhan Daiko is a British historical fiction author. A lover of all things Italian, she lives in the Veneto region of northern Italy with her husband, a Havanese dog and a Siberian cat. Siobhan was born of English parents in Hong Kong, attended boarding school in Australia, and then moved to the UK — where she taught modern foreign languages in a Welsh high school. She now spends her time writing page-turners and living the dolce vita sweet life near Venice. Her novels are compelling, poignant, and deeply moving, with strong female characters and evocative settings, but always with romance at their heart. You can find more about her books on her website www.siobhandaiko.org
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 16, 2019
What would you do if you heard an unfamiliar name whispered? Or your body whisked back and forth in time, centuries ago then back present day, reliving the past of someone else? Feeling their emotions as two bodies became one.
As Fern travels back and forth in time she realizes that Cecilia is much like her. Craving to become an artist.
Who is Lorenza? Why is the name constantly whispered to Fern?
Luca is like Giorgione Zorzo, a famous painter although Luca doesn't paint.
With Fern still having visions and body experiences of Celilia both are put into danger. Is history repeating itself?
The author paints a beautifully written story with intricate details of the beauty that surrounds Italy as it floats onto the canvas as well as it's history.
As Fern travels back and forth in time she realizes that Cecilia is much like her. Craving to become an artist.
Who is Lorenza? Why is the name constantly whispered to Fern?
Luca is like Giorgione Zorzo, a famous painter although Luca doesn't paint.
With Fern still having visions and body experiences of Celilia both are put into danger. Is history repeating itself?
The author paints a beautifully written story with intricate details of the beauty that surrounds Italy as it floats onto the canvas as well as it's history.
July 17, 2019
Lady of Venice is a historical romance by SC Daiko, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this type of genre - how wrong I was.
I really enjoyed this storyline it flowed brilliantly between present & past, the descriptions of the old & new world were amazing it felt like you were living in both eras , all the characters were amazing, I have a soft spot for 'Auntie'.
Romance, love, hot scenes, drama and one hell of a gripping storyline!
If you love a romance with a difference this is a one click must.
I really enjoyed this storyline it flowed brilliantly between present & past, the descriptions of the old & new world were amazing it felt like you were living in both eras , all the characters were amazing, I have a soft spot for 'Auntie'.
Romance, love, hot scenes, drama and one hell of a gripping storyline!
If you love a romance with a difference this is a one click must.
July 29, 2019
This is an amazing story that flows from past to present and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It will keep you guessing until the end. This story has it all from romance to mystery to suspense. It will grab you from the first page and have you reading until you finish because you can't put it down.
Fern finds herself on vacation to deal with a trauma in her life when things get real weird for her. She starts to have these dreams and visions about another lady and she can sense that they share some interests and something else but Fern can't figure it out until she meets Luca an Architect.
The more Fern goes back in time the more she learns what is happening. That is when she and Luca will have to stay one step ahead before they get caught up in an age old trauma.
This is a must read who loves past to present reads as well as romance reads. This is a one click for all.
Fern finds herself on vacation to deal with a trauma in her life when things get real weird for her. She starts to have these dreams and visions about another lady and she can sense that they share some interests and something else but Fern can't figure it out until she meets Luca an Architect.
The more Fern goes back in time the more she learns what is happening. That is when she and Luca will have to stay one step ahead before they get caught up in an age old trauma.
This is a must read who loves past to present reads as well as romance reads. This is a one click for all.
July 13, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this enchanting story of Fern and Luca. It is set in Italy and the authors beautiful descriptions transport the reader to that magical country. It is so clever how she weaves a fascinating story set in the past featuring the Italian painter Giorgione and his muse Cecilia with the present. Fern is traumatised by events in her past and escapes to Italy to stay with her Aunt for a painting holiday where she encounters the gorgeous Luca. Past and present collide and create a page turning fabulous story. In the authors words ‘ We can’t change the past. But the past can change us.’
‘In dreams, as in love, all is possible’. It’s a well deserved five stars from me and makes the perfect holiday read.
‘In dreams, as in love, all is possible’. It’s a well deserved five stars from me and makes the perfect holiday read.
July 14, 2019
What an incredible and cleaver story! I've never read a book like this before and I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it. Once I started, I had to keep reading to learn what would happen next. Lady of Venice is two stories entwined together in a exceptional way that goes back in history and to current time. With a mixture of romance, art, history and suspense it will grab a hold of your attention, and not let go until the end. The characters were interesting and well developed.
Siobhan Daiko is such an amazing author. She definitely has a way with words. With extremely vivid descriptions throughout, she has painted a wonderfully detailed story. It was a real page turner. If you are lover of historical romances, you will definitely want to one click this one!
Siobhan Daiko is such an amazing author. She definitely has a way with words. With extremely vivid descriptions throughout, she has painted a wonderfully detailed story. It was a real page turner. If you are lover of historical romances, you will definitely want to one click this one!
July 21, 2019
Lady of Venice by Siobhan Daiko is a really two stories in one I felt. There was the present day (sort of 1989) with Fern who was pulled back in time to learn about Cecilia. It was mysterious but it kept you wanting to read more to find out what is going on. This was a different type of book then I usually read but one that I did enjoy and hope to read more from this author.
July 31, 2019
When Fern goes on vacation to visit her Aunt, things quickly become confusing for the young woman when she begins to have strange dreams and visions of a time long ago and a woman named Cecilia. When Fern meets an Italian architect named Luca, they strike up a friendship, and he helps her figure out more about her time-slips. But as Fern begins to live through more of Cecilia’s story, will it become a repeat and now be her life? Will Luca and Fern be able to stay ahead of the events she sees? Or will they be caught up in the drama of the past?
Though this is not the type of books I normally read, I have read other works by this author, so I gave it a try and found it as good as her other books.
Though this is not the type of books I normally read, I have read other works by this author, so I gave it a try and found it as good as her other books.
July 28, 2019
Before I started this I wasn't sure if it was for me as I'm not usually a lover of historical books but I went into it with an open mind and came out of it with a full heart ...I flipping loved it!
It is beautifully written and flowed well, the attention to detail in the description of both past and present really makes you feel as though you're there and I was as invested as Fern to see Cecilia's story to the end. This book is filled with emotion from start to finish I can't express how it made me feel only that I absolutely loved it and it's changed my mind on historical books.
100% recommended this book!
It is beautifully written and flowed well, the attention to detail in the description of both past and present really makes you feel as though you're there and I was as invested as Fern to see Cecilia's story to the end. This book is filled with emotion from start to finish I can't express how it made me feel only that I absolutely loved it and it's changed my mind on historical books.
100% recommended this book!
July 21, 2019
Enchanting read.
Lady of Venice is escapism at its best. The author has successfully combined past and present, and written a beautiful story. Her skill is the ability to transport the reader back into history, and forward again to the present – she does it seamlessly. I’m a lover of romance and this story certainly ticks all the boxes for me. I love the main two characters and willed them to end up together. I liked auntie too! An easy 5 star read for me, it has everything - captivating history, fine art, endearing characters, and a gorgeous romance. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Lady of Venice is escapism at its best. The author has successfully combined past and present, and written a beautiful story. Her skill is the ability to transport the reader back into history, and forward again to the present – she does it seamlessly. I’m a lover of romance and this story certainly ticks all the boxes for me. I love the main two characters and willed them to end up together. I liked auntie too! An easy 5 star read for me, it has everything - captivating history, fine art, endearing characters, and a gorgeous romance. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
August 1, 2019
Great story especially in this historical genre.
I really enjoyed this story! It was written well and had a great built storyline. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it especially with this genre. I love all the work this author has done previously, so I’m glad I gave this a try. Lady of Venice is two stories entwined together and gives you a glimpse of history and to the present time like some time travel. The characters were well developed and made this story really interesting to read.
I really enjoyed this story! It was written well and had a great built storyline. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it especially with this genre. I love all the work this author has done previously, so I’m glad I gave this a try. Lady of Venice is two stories entwined together and gives you a glimpse of history and to the present time like some time travel. The characters were well developed and made this story really interesting to read.
July 16, 2019
What a very interesting story I have read nothing like it as we go back into history and then current time again and again with such beautiful description and so much mystery I couldn't put it down. The characters Fern and Luca were very well developed and we learned so much of the history as Fern goes on her journey and with Luca by her side everything becomes so new and so exciting. I really enjoyed this.
July 22, 2019
I loved this from start to finish.The characters of Fern, Cecilia, Luca and Zorzo were amazing. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful history, the passion, the love between these characters. You will not want to put this down, wanting to find out what will happen next. I love Historical Romance stories and this is one of the best. I wanted more and it touched me beyond words. A must, must, must romantic read.
July 22, 2019
A refreshing tale with such a clever and intriguing storyline. The past and present collide and it flowed superbly. I was instantly transported to beautiful Italy and the words evoked strong visions and the characters felt so real. I’m sure at one point I could even smell what was actually being described! It’s a story that fuelled my fascination for history, kept me gripped throughout and left me with a satisfied smile on my face at the end.
August 1, 2019
This story was emotional read for me. It was one that had everything you’ve come to expect from SC Diako. She has quite the way with words that sucks you in. I was enthralled with all that this story brought to the table. This historical romance is a one click for sure!!
Fern goes on a vacation and things turn weird and crazy. She has to go through things and see things that will amaze you. It is a historical romance that will stay with you long after the last page.
Fern goes on a vacation and things turn weird and crazy. She has to go through things and see things that will amaze you. It is a historical romance that will stay with you long after the last page.
August 3, 2019
I've read a lot of books written by Siobhan Daiko; she has done a great job at writing another good book; she is one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2019
An exceptional read!
This is my first book by Siobhan Daiko and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are wonderful and the beautiful descriptions of Italy draw you into the story in both the past and the present. The story is quite fascinating as we follow Fern and Luca on their adventures.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first book by Siobhan Daiko and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are wonderful and the beautiful descriptions of Italy draw you into the story in both the past and the present. The story is quite fascinating as we follow Fern and Luca on their adventures.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 24, 2019
This type of genre isnt usually my thing at all but I decided to give this one a try. I have to say that I truly enjoyed it and was glad I gave this one a chance. Loved all the characters and the storyline as we go back in time.
July 31, 2019
This store has two different time periods that were written brilliantly. Mystery , attraction and love this book covers it all . She took a couple facts from history and wrote the love story of Zorzo and Cecilia from the 1500 time period and also Luca and Fern from 1989 .
July 28, 2019
This story is really 2 stories in 1. This book has amazing characters that you will fall in love with and have amazing chemistry. Be ready to read in 1 sitting because you won’t be able to put it down.
July 30, 2019
This was officially my first historical romance. I captured by Fern and her wanting to know about this person that she kept seeing. Fern is struggling in her own life with her past but what can the future hold for her if she doesn't let the past go. I recommend this to anyone who loves romance.
July 16, 2019
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July 26, 2019
Always wonderful to read your book. I can never put them down. Once I start I just can’t stop. All the feels and characters you bring to the table is just wow. I need more!!!
February 26, 2022
Lady of Venezia is by Siobhan Daiko. This novel takes us to Venice and surrounding small towns from the present to the 16th century. The main character, Fern, travels to Italy to visit her aunt after her fiancé is killed in a huge fire at a railway station in London. Fern feels guilty about his death as she was to meet him at the station and ran late because she stayed to finish up on some work at her job. She had been in art counseling prior to her leaving on her trip and she felt it helped her and she found out she wasn’t too bad at it. She plans to sketch while she is visiting.
When she is at her aunt’s house, she hears a voice calling for “Lorenza”, smells burning wood, and sees a piece of burnt wood at various places in the house; but can’t touch it. Then as she and her aunt visit the ruins of nearby castles and churches, she begins to flip back into the past. Here she is Cecilia, the queen’s handmaiden. As she keeps going back, she learns her story as she continues to try to find Lorenza.
As she tries to figure out what is going on, a side effect is that she learns painting tips from Giorgione, a famous painter. These tips continue with her when she returns to the present. How will she stop having these trips back to the past? What will happen if they abruptly end? Should she continue to go into the past to get all the answers or should she stop now? What happens if Cecilia dies while Fern is in the past?
When she is at her aunt’s house, she hears a voice calling for “Lorenza”, smells burning wood, and sees a piece of burnt wood at various places in the house; but can’t touch it. Then as she and her aunt visit the ruins of nearby castles and churches, she begins to flip back into the past. Here she is Cecilia, the queen’s handmaiden. As she keeps going back, she learns her story as she continues to try to find Lorenza.
As she tries to figure out what is going on, a side effect is that she learns painting tips from Giorgione, a famous painter. These tips continue with her when she returns to the present. How will she stop having these trips back to the past? What will happen if they abruptly end? Should she continue to go into the past to get all the answers or should she stop now? What happens if Cecilia dies while Fern is in the past?
November 14, 2025
Set in Italy 1989, Siobhan Daiko has included history within this novel.
The main character, Fern, is visiting Italy to see her aunt. However, when she arrives at certain destinations, she visions herself back in the 16th century. These visions are those of a woman, Cecilia, who is trying to connect so that her life and events during that period can be understood.
The history is well written and the reader is able to envisage what life would be like in early 16th century, with descriptions of the places she visits.
Incorporating history into fiction brings this book alive and I enjoyed reading it as well as learning about events I was unfamiliar with.
The main character, Fern, is visiting Italy to see her aunt. However, when she arrives at certain destinations, she visions herself back in the 16th century. These visions are those of a woman, Cecilia, who is trying to connect so that her life and events during that period can be understood.
The history is well written and the reader is able to envisage what life would be like in early 16th century, with descriptions of the places she visits.
Incorporating history into fiction brings this book alive and I enjoyed reading it as well as learning about events I was unfamiliar with.
November 14, 2021
This is my second book by Siobhan Daiko, writing buddy of Ann Bennett who I love to read. Prior to this I read Siobhan Daiko’s “The Girl From Venice”, a fascinating historical fiction of the Jews in WWII Venice. In “Lady of Venezia” I was not sure what to think of Fern’s dreams about the past, but the more O read the more I was intrigued. The author weaves together past and present in a very creative way.
March 6, 2022
Not your usual historical romance novel!
What a delightful and unexpected read. At first I was not sure about the unlikely flashbacks, but as I persisted I was happily hooked! The characters were so engaging and the multiple storylines so well done that I could hardly wait to read what was happening next! If you love Italy, history and a good romance novel, this is a must read!
What a delightful and unexpected read. At first I was not sure about the unlikely flashbacks, but as I persisted I was happily hooked! The characters were so engaging and the multiple storylines so well done that I could hardly wait to read what was happening next! If you love Italy, history and a good romance novel, this is a must read!
July 18, 2022
Beautiful writing! I have read, loved, and been inspired by all of Siobhan’s ‘Girls from the Italian Resistance’ series. This was the first book of hers that I read not in the series and it was a nice break from my usual WW2 historical fiction I usually read. History, romance, modern day, and fate all entwined together for a thrilling read that left me with chills at the end!
February 6, 2020
Three stars is a bit generous. Daiko is far below the level of other writers of time-shift tales, but also better than others.
January 31, 2022
loved the way this story went from current to past especially the way Fern felt Cecilia's emotions
November 9, 2024
The Tempest
I have a very good rendering of this painting in my home so it’s been amazing to read a story linked to it. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
I have a very good rendering of this painting in my home so it’s been amazing to read a story linked to it. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews