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Casanova's Secret Wife
Set in eighteenth-century Venice and based on an actual account by Giacomo Casanova—here is a lush tale of desire and risk, offering a little known portrait of the writer as a young man.
Caterina Capreta was an innocent girl of fourteen when she caught the attention of the world’s most infamous chronicler of seduction: Giacomo Casanova. Intoxicated by a fierce love, she wed Casanova in secret. But his shocking betrayal inspired her to commit an act that would mark her forever . . .
Now twenty years later on the island of Murano, the woman in possession of Caterina’s most devastating secret has appeared with a request she cannot refuse: to take in a noble-born girl whose scandalous love affair resembles her own. But the girl’s presence stirs up unwelcome memories of Caterina’s turbulent past. Tested like never before, she reveals the story of the man she will never forget . . .
Bringing to life a fascinating chapter in the history of Venice, Casanova’s Secret Wife is a tour de force that charts one woman’s journey through love and loss to redemption.
Caterina Capreta was an innocent girl of fourteen when she caught the attention of the world’s most infamous chronicler of seduction: Giacomo Casanova. Intoxicated by a fierce love, she wed Casanova in secret. But his shocking betrayal inspired her to commit an act that would mark her forever . . .
Now twenty years later on the island of Murano, the woman in possession of Caterina’s most devastating secret has appeared with a request she cannot refuse: to take in a noble-born girl whose scandalous love affair resembles her own. But the girl’s presence stirs up unwelcome memories of Caterina’s turbulent past. Tested like never before, she reveals the story of the man she will never forget . . .
Bringing to life a fascinating chapter in the history of Venice, Casanova’s Secret Wife is a tour de force that charts one woman’s journey through love and loss to redemption.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
35 people are currently reading
1214 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Lynn-Davis
1 book37 followersAfter graduating from Brown University with a degree in art history, Barbara Lynn-Davis worked at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice and began a life-long love affair with the lagoon city. She returned to Venice for a year while completing her PhD in Renaissance art at Princeton University. Along the way, she discovered the memoirs of famed lover Giacomo Casanova, and found the story she wanted to tell. Lynn-Davis teaches art history and writing at Wellesley College, and lives outside Boston with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 23, 2019
Giacomo Casanova (1725-1798) tried to be a preacher, musician, and writer, but what he left behind is the legacy of the greatest lover or rather conqueror of hearts. His biography written by him is regarded as one of the most authentic sources of the customs and norms of European social life during the 18th century.
This story alternates between 1753, when Caterina Capreta is 14, and 1774, when she is a married woman. The year 1753, when she is in convent is based on true facts.
In present time Venice 1774, Caterina is asked to help out a young girl who put herself in a situation Caterina was once in. As two women get acquainted, they reveal their first loves.
Caterina Capreta, at the age of 14, meets Giacomo Casanova. Innocent Caterina, smitten by Casanova, starts receiving his love letters filled with poems; followed by trysts to theater, sweet talks and of course more.
While Casanova pours amorous feelings, a glimpse of his own story is revealed. At the age of 8, he loses his father and his mother leaves Venice as an actress in search of a job. He is raised by his grandmother, who dies when his is 18. At 15, he enters to study ecclesiastical law in Padua and “chasing after a position in the Church” for the next four years.
While seducing her, they make marriage vows.
The father doesn’t agree to the marriage and sends Caterina to a convent on Murano Island.
While in convent, his love fades and her despair grows.
The story is concentrated on 1 year when Caterina is in convent. I wished that the story revealed more of Casanova’s life rather than just a glimpse. Through this story, we don’t get to know Casanova besides what is already known about him.
Nevertheless, it is a quick and light read.
The story mentions Jewish ghetto, if you’d like to read more about it – The Midwife of Venice by Roberta Rich.
The convent was located on the island of Murano, which is known for glassblowing – The Glassblower of Murano by Marina Fiorato.
If you’d like to immerse yourself in Venice, the city of gondolas – The Gondola Maker by Laura Morelli.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
This story alternates between 1753, when Caterina Capreta is 14, and 1774, when she is a married woman. The year 1753, when she is in convent is based on true facts.
In present time Venice 1774, Caterina is asked to help out a young girl who put herself in a situation Caterina was once in. As two women get acquainted, they reveal their first loves.
Caterina Capreta, at the age of 14, meets Giacomo Casanova. Innocent Caterina, smitten by Casanova, starts receiving his love letters filled with poems; followed by trysts to theater, sweet talks and of course more.
While Casanova pours amorous feelings, a glimpse of his own story is revealed. At the age of 8, he loses his father and his mother leaves Venice as an actress in search of a job. He is raised by his grandmother, who dies when his is 18. At 15, he enters to study ecclesiastical law in Padua and “chasing after a position in the Church” for the next four years.
While seducing her, they make marriage vows.
The father doesn’t agree to the marriage and sends Caterina to a convent on Murano Island.
While in convent, his love fades and her despair grows.
The story is concentrated on 1 year when Caterina is in convent. I wished that the story revealed more of Casanova’s life rather than just a glimpse. Through this story, we don’t get to know Casanova besides what is already known about him.
Nevertheless, it is a quick and light read.
The story mentions Jewish ghetto, if you’d like to read more about it – The Midwife of Venice by Roberta Rich.
The convent was located on the island of Murano, which is known for glassblowing – The Glassblower of Murano by Marina Fiorato.
If you’d like to immerse yourself in Venice, the city of gondolas – The Gondola Maker by Laura Morelli.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
July 26, 2017
The books blurb really intrigued me and I was quite looking forward to reading this book. I have to admit that, despite recognizing Casanova's name and his reputation did I not know much about the man himself more than he has written books about his female conquests. With that in mind did I set out to read this book. Which when I look back probably made me a bit cynical when it came to his courtship of Caterina Capreta. Actually, with a bit, I mean quite a lot...
Yes, I had a hard time taking their romance serious because I kept on waiting for Caterina to realize that Casanova is a cad. Now, I don't say that he didn't love her, it was easy to see looking back and see that his love burned brightly for a short moment until he moved on to the next woman. The problem is for the woman or in this case the girl was it not that easy to move on. I came to like very much the grown up Caterina who is looking back to her history with Casanova while taking care of a young girl that was in the same situation as Caterina was in 20 years ago. She didn't have an easy life, was very sheltered and then Casanova showed up and swept her off her feet. It's understandable that this fourteen-year-old girl would fall head over heel in love with him. Now, it may be hard to read a love story with a girl so young with an older man, but I never had a problem with that since one has to see to the context of the story. Although I have to admit that she now and then seemed much older than fourteen, but back then girls at that age probably were more mature than today's teenagers.
Casanova's Secret Wife is a book that I'm glad to have read. Yes, I had a hard time with the romance part because I pretty much knew that this would not end good, but the writing is good and I loved that Barbara Lynn-Davis added towards the end some notes about Casanova books and the mentions of woman that could be Caterina Capreta. I always like knowing more about a real life person after reading a book.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
Yes, I had a hard time taking their romance serious because I kept on waiting for Caterina to realize that Casanova is a cad. Now, I don't say that he didn't love her, it was easy to see looking back and see that his love burned brightly for a short moment until he moved on to the next woman. The problem is for the woman or in this case the girl was it not that easy to move on. I came to like very much the grown up Caterina who is looking back to her history with Casanova while taking care of a young girl that was in the same situation as Caterina was in 20 years ago. She didn't have an easy life, was very sheltered and then Casanova showed up and swept her off her feet. It's understandable that this fourteen-year-old girl would fall head over heel in love with him. Now, it may be hard to read a love story with a girl so young with an older man, but I never had a problem with that since one has to see to the context of the story. Although I have to admit that she now and then seemed much older than fourteen, but back then girls at that age probably were more mature than today's teenagers.
Casanova's Secret Wife is a book that I'm glad to have read. Yes, I had a hard time with the romance part because I pretty much knew that this would not end good, but the writing is good and I loved that Barbara Lynn-Davis added towards the end some notes about Casanova books and the mentions of woman that could be Caterina Capreta. I always like knowing more about a real life person after reading a book.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
July 31, 2017
"Casanova's Secret Wife" is the story of Caterina, who when we meet her in the book is a married woman who goes to a convent when she summoned by an old friend. This friend wants her to take in a young pregnant woman who unmarried and at this time, that is socially unacceptable. Caterina knows that she will be scrutinized for taking taking in this woman and she is not sure she can take on any more scrutiny for a variety of reasons. But she agrees to take her in and at first she doesn't really know why she does this considering her history with the woman who asked a favor of her. As we find out in the book slowly Katerina has a long history with this woman. Told in sweeping prose that captures Murano, an island just off of Italy is Venice, and many other hidden secrets, this book captured my attention.
As we find out in the story, Caterina who becomes secretly married to the infamous Casanova. I have to admit before reading this book I, of course, had heard Casanova used as a description of very amorous person but I have to admit that I didn't know very much about Casanova as an actual person. We get insight into his character as we see how 14 year old Caterina is entranced by Casanova and lives on his promises even when he doesn't see apt to keep them.
The detail in this book is great! The author draws on a lot of detailed writings that Casanova himself put together in order to come up with this story. And the setting, oh, the setting! I love any book set in Italy. I especially loved that this book was mostly set in Murano, a place that I had a chance to visit and one that I really really enjoyed.
I really enjoyed the writing! I love the way that the author is able to give us just a little bit of a little bit of detail about Caterina's past at a time which really kept me reading. I also liked the part about Caterina taking in this young woman and eventually opening herself up to her as Caterina was once in a very similar position.
Overall, this was a great story with great historical detail and kept me entertained throughout.
As we find out in the story, Caterina who becomes secretly married to the infamous Casanova. I have to admit before reading this book I, of course, had heard Casanova used as a description of very amorous person but I have to admit that I didn't know very much about Casanova as an actual person. We get insight into his character as we see how 14 year old Caterina is entranced by Casanova and lives on his promises even when he doesn't see apt to keep them.
The detail in this book is great! The author draws on a lot of detailed writings that Casanova himself put together in order to come up with this story. And the setting, oh, the setting! I love any book set in Italy. I especially loved that this book was mostly set in Murano, a place that I had a chance to visit and one that I really really enjoyed.
I really enjoyed the writing! I love the way that the author is able to give us just a little bit of a little bit of detail about Caterina's past at a time which really kept me reading. I also liked the part about Caterina taking in this young woman and eventually opening herself up to her as Caterina was once in a very similar position.
Overall, this was a great story with great historical detail and kept me entertained throughout.
August 8, 2017
I am a sucker when it comes to books taking place in Italy, rich in culture and history, it's my ultimate vacation destination. I have been to a couple cities there but never Venice or the island of Murano. As my blog subtitle states 'reading gives you someplace to go when you have to stay where you are', which is exactly what Casanova's Secret Wife did. It transported me to the eighteenth century with lush descriptive settings, from gondola rides to food to the convent.
I am familiar with the name Casanova but know nothing more about this character, to really show my ignorance I wasn't even sure this was a real person or just a myth. Which was one of my main reasons for wanting to read this one. While I was immediately drawn into this story I did struggle with Caterina's age, I realize that girls matured early back in the day but my feeling throughout this book was that she was older and wiser than 14 years, though some of her actions spoke clearly of someone lacking maturity.
The plot was interesting and proves Casanova's reputation, the author had wonderful author's notes to show her research and how true she stayed to the facts, but it's fiction and she filled in the gaps quite nicely. This story is told from Caterina's initial meeting and then 20 years later as she recounts what took place. I loved that the author used some of Casonava's actual writings here and gave more info about his life.
Casanova's Secret Wife is a story of first love, loss and redemption, it's one I enjoyed read and has me keeping my eye open for more by this author.
Thanks to HFVBT for the invite to be part of this tour and a print copy in exchange for honest review.
I am familiar with the name Casanova but know nothing more about this character, to really show my ignorance I wasn't even sure this was a real person or just a myth. Which was one of my main reasons for wanting to read this one. While I was immediately drawn into this story I did struggle with Caterina's age, I realize that girls matured early back in the day but my feeling throughout this book was that she was older and wiser than 14 years, though some of her actions spoke clearly of someone lacking maturity.
The plot was interesting and proves Casanova's reputation, the author had wonderful author's notes to show her research and how true she stayed to the facts, but it's fiction and she filled in the gaps quite nicely. This story is told from Caterina's initial meeting and then 20 years later as she recounts what took place. I loved that the author used some of Casonava's actual writings here and gave more info about his life.
Casanova's Secret Wife is a story of first love, loss and redemption, it's one I enjoyed read and has me keeping my eye open for more by this author.
Thanks to HFVBT for the invite to be part of this tour and a print copy in exchange for honest review.
August 2, 2017
**RATING 4.5**
CASANOVA'S SECRET WIFE by Barbara Lynn-Davis is a beautifully written, evocative tale of love, desire, and loss. Transported back in time, the rich beauty of Venice comes alive through the characters that will capture your heart and a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading the final sentence.
When Caterina finds herself obliged to help a young girl, Leda, who finds herself pregnant and alone, it stirs up memories from her own past that seems so long ago. As Caterina becomes closer to Leda, she starts to open up about her own love affair when she was but a girl. Through letters and her own memories, we become embroiled in the passion and desire that Giacomo Casanova fired up inside of her. And as the tale progresses we understand that this is one romance that will never have the traditional happy ending.
The characters are well developed and intriguing, and my heart ached for Caterina who loved to linger in her memories. With descriptive settings that will take your breath away and a historical plot that will hold you entranced, CASANOVA'S SECRET WIFE by Barbara Lynn-Davis is the perfect read for historical fans worldwide.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
CASANOVA'S SECRET WIFE by Barbara Lynn-Davis is a beautifully written, evocative tale of love, desire, and loss. Transported back in time, the rich beauty of Venice comes alive through the characters that will capture your heart and a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading the final sentence.
When Caterina finds herself obliged to help a young girl, Leda, who finds herself pregnant and alone, it stirs up memories from her own past that seems so long ago. As Caterina becomes closer to Leda, she starts to open up about her own love affair when she was but a girl. Through letters and her own memories, we become embroiled in the passion and desire that Giacomo Casanova fired up inside of her. And as the tale progresses we understand that this is one romance that will never have the traditional happy ending.
The characters are well developed and intriguing, and my heart ached for Caterina who loved to linger in her memories. With descriptive settings that will take your breath away and a historical plot that will hold you entranced, CASANOVA'S SECRET WIFE by Barbara Lynn-Davis is the perfect read for historical fans worldwide.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher
January 20, 2018
A compelling, unusual story that beautifully evokes 18th century venice--a wonderful example of meticulous historical research blended with imaginative fictional invention to recreate the life of the 14 year old girl who loved and was loved by the famous (and infamous) Casanova.
August 22, 2017
3,5 stars
Almost everything I knew about Casanova before reading this was from Heath Ledger’s movie. So not much… I did know he has written books about his conquests.
Knowing that I was somewhat cynical about the romance between Caterina and Casanova and I just kept waiting for her to realize what kind of man he was. And he did love her but he fell in and out of love very quickly. But she was 14 years old and very naïve. Which was little surprising considering who her brother was and how he behaved…
I liked the older and wiser Caterina who agrees to take care of a young woman who reminds her of herself 20 years ago. The abbess who asks this favor is an old enemy of hers and we learn the story there. And another side of Caterina too.
I enjoyed the book despite some problems with the romance and I can’t wait for the author’s next book.
Almost everything I knew about Casanova before reading this was from Heath Ledger’s movie. So not much… I did know he has written books about his conquests.
Knowing that I was somewhat cynical about the romance between Caterina and Casanova and I just kept waiting for her to realize what kind of man he was. And he did love her but he fell in and out of love very quickly. But she was 14 years old and very naïve. Which was little surprising considering who her brother was and how he behaved…
I liked the older and wiser Caterina who agrees to take care of a young woman who reminds her of herself 20 years ago. The abbess who asks this favor is an old enemy of hers and we learn the story there. And another side of Caterina too.
I enjoyed the book despite some problems with the romance and I can’t wait for the author’s next book.
August 8, 2017
Casanova is the world’s most famous lover. Casanova’s Secret Wife tells the story of Caterina Capreta, the woman who loved him. At the bequests of the abbess, Caterina takes in Leda, a noblewoman who had been caught in a scandal. As soon as Caterina meets Leda, she realizes how her story was similar to her own. She then tells Leda the story of her life.
Caterina was fourteen when she met Giacomo Casanova. Upon meeting him, she is immediately smitten with him. She secretly exchanges vows with him and hopes that she will be with him forever. However, her dreams are shattered. Her father does not view him as a potential suitor for Caterina. He sends her to a convent until she is considered for a suitable marriage at the age of eighteen. Despite her circumstances, Caterina plans to be with Casanova again. However, her plans change when Casanova’s feelings turn to another woman. Heartbroken, Caterina is desperate to go to any lengths to keep Casanova at her side.
I really like Caterina. She was a very sympathetic figure. Caterina is naive, idealistic, and a romantic. She is charmed by Casanova for his handsome features and his love of poetry. She believes that she will be happy with him for the rest of her life. However, Caterina slowly grows wiser. We feel her heartbreak as she slowly learns that Casanova is not the faithful husband that he has professed himself to be. We root for Caterina as we hope that she will eventually find her own happiness without Casanova.
Overall, this book is about first love, betrayal, redemption, and forgiveness. The message of the book is to forgive yourself. I really thought this was a very emotional book and I really could understand the characters. I especially loved the supporting characters Leda and Zulietta. I was intrigued by their stories and hoped they had a happy ending. However, after reading this novel, I thought I didn’t really know Casanova. He did not seem complex enough. However, I loved the setting. The novel was so vivid that I felt as if I was rowing the streets of Venice alongside Caterina. Thus, it was a very beautiful story, and it captivated me from the first page. I was so intrigued by this book that I read it in one sitting. Casanova’s Secret Wife is a treat for historical fiction lovers, and I cannot wait to read the next book Barbara Lynn-Davis has in store for us. I recommend this novel for fans of Sacred Hearts, The Glassblower of Murano, and Artemisia.
(Note: This book was given to me by Historical Fiction Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.)
Caterina was fourteen when she met Giacomo Casanova. Upon meeting him, she is immediately smitten with him. She secretly exchanges vows with him and hopes that she will be with him forever. However, her dreams are shattered. Her father does not view him as a potential suitor for Caterina. He sends her to a convent until she is considered for a suitable marriage at the age of eighteen. Despite her circumstances, Caterina plans to be with Casanova again. However, her plans change when Casanova’s feelings turn to another woman. Heartbroken, Caterina is desperate to go to any lengths to keep Casanova at her side.
I really like Caterina. She was a very sympathetic figure. Caterina is naive, idealistic, and a romantic. She is charmed by Casanova for his handsome features and his love of poetry. She believes that she will be happy with him for the rest of her life. However, Caterina slowly grows wiser. We feel her heartbreak as she slowly learns that Casanova is not the faithful husband that he has professed himself to be. We root for Caterina as we hope that she will eventually find her own happiness without Casanova.
Overall, this book is about first love, betrayal, redemption, and forgiveness. The message of the book is to forgive yourself. I really thought this was a very emotional book and I really could understand the characters. I especially loved the supporting characters Leda and Zulietta. I was intrigued by their stories and hoped they had a happy ending. However, after reading this novel, I thought I didn’t really know Casanova. He did not seem complex enough. However, I loved the setting. The novel was so vivid that I felt as if I was rowing the streets of Venice alongside Caterina. Thus, it was a very beautiful story, and it captivated me from the first page. I was so intrigued by this book that I read it in one sitting. Casanova’s Secret Wife is a treat for historical fiction lovers, and I cannot wait to read the next book Barbara Lynn-Davis has in store for us. I recommend this novel for fans of Sacred Hearts, The Glassblower of Murano, and Artemisia.
(Note: This book was given to me by Historical Fiction Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.)
Want to read
May 10, 2017I won this book via Goodreads Firstreads Giveaway. I received an advanced uncorrected proof.
January 12, 2020
I wouldn't consider this much of a romance novel as I would one of women's fiction. The write up and cover are very misleading.
July 24, 2017
Caterina Capreta became entangled with the infamous Giacoma Casanova at the age of fourteen and has harbored a secret of her love affair and wedding to him for her adult life. When Caterina is called back to the Murano convent where she was a boarded for four years, the memories of Caterina and Casanova's love affair return to her full force. The Abbess, Marina, is an old acquaintance of Caterina's from her time there. Marina asks Caterina for a favor that she cannot refuse; to take in a young pregnant border until the child is delivered. Leda, has found herself in a compromising position from what she believed was true love. As Caterina recognizes herself in Leda, she shares her story of her turbulent time with Casanova. The two women find their similarities, gain friendship and realize the many definitions of love.
I was immediately pulled into Caterina's story along with the inviting setting of Venice. As an adult, Caterina secrets feel compelled to come pouring out. From the time Caterina meets with Marina, I knew there was something deeper there. The mystery of what happened between Caterina and Casanova and how it created a tumultuous divide intrigued me. Through Caterina's letters and stories that she tells Leda, we get to see Casanova in a different way, how he was with one woman whom he truly loved. I was also pleased to see that this is based on some facts that have been discovered. At first, I was a little put off by the fact that Caterina was 14, but apparently this is how old she actually was. I was happily surprised that this was not really a love story, but more of a story of acceptance and coming to terms with the past. With Leda, Caterina is finally able to review that part of her life with someone who understands and put in behind her. Overall, a historical retelling of one of Casanova's many loves and it's consequences from the women's point of view.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
I was immediately pulled into Caterina's story along with the inviting setting of Venice. As an adult, Caterina secrets feel compelled to come pouring out. From the time Caterina meets with Marina, I knew there was something deeper there. The mystery of what happened between Caterina and Casanova and how it created a tumultuous divide intrigued me. Through Caterina's letters and stories that she tells Leda, we get to see Casanova in a different way, how he was with one woman whom he truly loved. I was also pleased to see that this is based on some facts that have been discovered. At first, I was a little put off by the fact that Caterina was 14, but apparently this is how old she actually was. I was happily surprised that this was not really a love story, but more of a story of acceptance and coming to terms with the past. With Leda, Caterina is finally able to review that part of her life with someone who understands and put in behind her. Overall, a historical retelling of one of Casanova's many loves and it's consequences from the women's point of view.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
August 23, 2017
I will be the first to admit that I didn’t know much about Casanova going into this book other than the definition attached to his name as a noun rather than anything about the man as a person. This book uses Casanova’s diary as a starting point to create a story about a young (very young) woman in 18th century Venice who fell under his spell.
Caterina tells the story starting with her later life as she is asked to take in a young, pregnant girl who had been brought to a convent. It is a place she knows well for she had been sent there herself. The mother superior is an old enemy and knows that Caterina will be likely to accept the girl.
As the two settle in to living together Caterina slowly shares her story that starts when she is 14 and encompasses love, passion, deceit, betrayal, and more.
The novel takes what has become a popular method of storytelling lately – going back and forth in time with alternating chapters. Caterina also has her love letters from Casanova and they help to drive the chapters from the past. As she relives her past she hopes that her young charge can learn from her mistakes.
Overall I did enjoy this book. It was interesting to travel to Venice for a change in my reading. The city came alive in the book – the good and the bad. Ms. Lynn-Davis really brought the smells and sounds of living on the water to life. Caterina at times really aggravated me – especially when she was younger. Even when Casanova was treating her poorly she could see no wrong in him. Actually even looking back it was if she could still not see him for what he was – and what he was was a serial abuser of women. At least that is what we would call him in our time. Back then – who knows.
The story read quickly and was interesting, character flaws notwithstanding. It was truly fascinating to get a fictionalized peek into the life of a man who has left his mark on history. Maybe not in the best of ways – but we all know the name!
Caterina tells the story starting with her later life as she is asked to take in a young, pregnant girl who had been brought to a convent. It is a place she knows well for she had been sent there herself. The mother superior is an old enemy and knows that Caterina will be likely to accept the girl.
As the two settle in to living together Caterina slowly shares her story that starts when she is 14 and encompasses love, passion, deceit, betrayal, and more.
The novel takes what has become a popular method of storytelling lately – going back and forth in time with alternating chapters. Caterina also has her love letters from Casanova and they help to drive the chapters from the past. As she relives her past she hopes that her young charge can learn from her mistakes.
Overall I did enjoy this book. It was interesting to travel to Venice for a change in my reading. The city came alive in the book – the good and the bad. Ms. Lynn-Davis really brought the smells and sounds of living on the water to life. Caterina at times really aggravated me – especially when she was younger. Even when Casanova was treating her poorly she could see no wrong in him. Actually even looking back it was if she could still not see him for what he was – and what he was was a serial abuser of women. At least that is what we would call him in our time. Back then – who knows.
The story read quickly and was interesting, character flaws notwithstanding. It was truly fascinating to get a fictionalized peek into the life of a man who has left his mark on history. Maybe not in the best of ways – but we all know the name!
August 31, 2017
It is a little known secret that my favourite genre is Italian historical fiction. And this novel certainly did not disappoint. I was interested in seeing how a rake and con like Casanova would be portrayed and whether the author would make him a rogue or sympathetic. I was pleased that the author showed us his charm and likeability. Of course there were moments when I worried that he would turn sour on his relationship with Caterina, and although he did drift, he did his best to remain supportive and kind to her.
Of course the novel was set in Venice and it the author created an excellent depiction of the time. locations, and social norms of the time. She brought to life the decadence, secrets, and rich way of life.
This story pleased me on many, many counts - its historical detail, the historical personages, and of course the beauty of La Serenissima! This was a great read and I highly recommend it!
Of course the novel was set in Venice and it the author created an excellent depiction of the time. locations, and social norms of the time. She brought to life the decadence, secrets, and rich way of life.
This story pleased me on many, many counts - its historical detail, the historical personages, and of course the beauty of La Serenissima! This was a great read and I highly recommend it!
May 6, 2022
Катерину Капрете колись звабив молодий Казанова, влаштувавший фальшивий шлюб, а двадцять років потому вона живе нуднуватим життям дружини венеційського купця. І все б так і тяглося, якби давня суперниця Марина, а тепер настоятелька монастиря, де Катерина колись жила і бігала звідти на побачення, не попросила її наглянути за молодою вагітною дівчиною, якій також пообіцяли шлюб. Так Катерина стає подругою для Леди, витягує старі листи зі скрині і переповідає почасти їй, а почасти собі, як все сталося з Казановою.
Милий роман, легко написаний і перекладений (я читала в російськомовному перекладі від КСД). Нових горизонтів не відкриє, та й не треба, але добре читається. Ще тут є Венеція та монастирі, а про них я теж люблю.
Милий роман, легко написаний і перекладений (я читала в російськомовному перекладі від КСД). Нових горизонтів не відкриє, та й не треба, але добре читається. Ще тут є Венеція та монастирі, а про них я теж люблю.
August 2, 2017
I received this book as part of a Good reads giveaway.
This is less of a romance novel and more of a work of historical fiction. The writer clearly did her research well; it is hard to tell what is historical fact and what is fiction. The two blend together seamlessly.
It was an interesting and entertaining read, although I did not find any of the characters particularly likeable. The descriptions of the settings and clothing were very well done, and helped to create great mental pictures as I read. I feel that this will eventually be made into a movie or miniseries...it has that sort of feel to it.
This is less of a romance novel and more of a work of historical fiction. The writer clearly did her research well; it is hard to tell what is historical fact and what is fiction. The two blend together seamlessly.
It was an interesting and entertaining read, although I did not find any of the characters particularly likeable. The descriptions of the settings and clothing were very well done, and helped to create great mental pictures as I read. I feel that this will eventually be made into a movie or miniseries...it has that sort of feel to it.
August 1, 2017
I received this book for free from good reads.
this is a quick read. light reading. from the first it seemed like a story of a naïve young girl who was drawn into a love affair over which she had little control. she tells her story to a younger version of herself, Leda. we also hear of a cousin. in all versions of the stories these women have we learn about life in Venice during this time, what their lives are like and what their expectations can be. all of it limited.
I enjoyed reading it even as I kept shaking my head at how anyone would believe such a seducer. a good quick read.
this is a quick read. light reading. from the first it seemed like a story of a naïve young girl who was drawn into a love affair over which she had little control. she tells her story to a younger version of herself, Leda. we also hear of a cousin. in all versions of the stories these women have we learn about life in Venice during this time, what their lives are like and what their expectations can be. all of it limited.
I enjoyed reading it even as I kept shaking my head at how anyone would believe such a seducer. a good quick read.
August 23, 2017
A captivating piece of historical fiction about an actual woman, beautifully and convincingly put together from fragments of Casanova's memoirs. Lynn-Davis has a rare gift for dialogue that sounds exactly right, and her historical research on 18th century Venice is impeccable. She knows how to tell a story that keeps you turning the pages. Short chapters, a pendulating narrative arc that swings back and forth over a 20 year period, but is completely lucid. A completely satisfying book in every way. I can't wait for her next book, Raphael's Muse.
November 19, 2017
This book unfolds exactly the way I think of the city of Venice with a new layer always being pulled back. Caterina's story starts as a young love affair with the handsome Casanova and evolves into a love so consuming she just may commit murder to keep her lover. I had my doubts when starting this novel, but it's fast-paced, engaging, and absolutely fascinating. It made for the perfect weekend read.
July 23, 2017
Thanks Kensington Books and netgalley for this ARC.
Venice will never seem the same after reading Casanova's Secret Wife. I know I will always remember
Caterina's descriptions of her home. This story has all the hallmarks of a novel you'll want to re-read for the pleasure. of it. Caterina is given a second chance at happiness but she does not realize that til it's almost too late. This is a story of betrayal, redemption, and unforgettable love.
Venice will never seem the same after reading Casanova's Secret Wife. I know I will always remember
Caterina's descriptions of her home. This story has all the hallmarks of a novel you'll want to re-read for the pleasure. of it. Caterina is given a second chance at happiness but she does not realize that til it's almost too late. This is a story of betrayal, redemption, and unforgettable love.
July 25, 2017
Thanks Kensington Books and netgalley for this ARC.
I can't say enough good to do justice to how enjoyable this novel gave me. I was sorry to finish.
I can't say enough good to do justice to how enjoyable this novel gave me. I was sorry to finish.
to-check-out
August 3, 2017Author Q&A + Giveaway @ Let Them Read Books!
August 7, 2017
Easily drawn in, love the culture tidbits.
August 24, 2017
I thought that the author did a great job of bringing us into the life of passion with a Casanova in 18th century Venice. It's a captivating, passionate, historical read.
October 1, 2020
Hummmm.... Still letting the storyline percolate.
February 18, 2018
Gail's Nov 2017 book club book
March 5, 2018
Intriguing period romance
July 14, 2017
This was a wonderful book, filled with details about Venice and life there in the eighteenth century. It made me want to visit Venice, and see these beautiful scenes for myself. I gave this four stars because the heroine would occasionally behave in an unrealistic way for a sheltered young woman, doing or saying things that felt as if they were only to move the story along. According to the author's profile, she is a college professor, and while this did make the book very interesting there were places that dragged, or were a little too much like a lecture. But overall it was an enjoyable read, and I look forward to her next book.
Beautiful cover, too.
I received this book as a giveaway from the publisher at BEA 2017 in NYC.
Beautiful cover, too.
I received this book as a giveaway from the publisher at BEA 2017 in NYC.
April 12, 2017
I've always been curious about Casanova, but this book serves up so much more than a portrait of the famous lothario. It's simply luscious, from the writing to the plot to the descriptions of Venice to the layered relationships among the characters--not to mention the food!
Caterina, Casanova's secret wife, is only 14, which worried me a bit initially, but then I realized not only is she historically accurate, but people typically only lived to be in their 30s in the 1700s. I remember that mind-boggling crush of first love and Caterina's is rendered beautifully in this book with some dire consequences for those who would thwart her. (No spoilers here!)
The author is an art historian & her eye for detail and feel for the period is amazing. Great book if you want to get lost in an unusual romance based on Casanova's diaries.
Caterina, Casanova's secret wife, is only 14, which worried me a bit initially, but then I realized not only is she historically accurate, but people typically only lived to be in their 30s in the 1700s. I remember that mind-boggling crush of first love and Caterina's is rendered beautifully in this book with some dire consequences for those who would thwart her. (No spoilers here!)
The author is an art historian & her eye for detail and feel for the period is amazing. Great book if you want to get lost in an unusual romance based on Casanova's diaries.
May 10, 2017
The twists and turns in the life of a young woman in love with a capricious man, Casanova, leads one down sublime as well as nefarious paths, like the streets of Venice. Sometimes dark and sinister, other times sunny and sensuous: always authentic and well researched and an exhilarating read. This is a timeless tale of passion, jealousy, and inner reflection. Lynn-Davis is a master story teller and I eagerly look forward to her next novel.
April 18, 2017
Barbara Lynn-Davis has brought Casanova and his secret wife, Caterina, gloriously to life in one of the most beautiful, exotic cities in the world, Venice, Italy. You live through Caterina's passionate love for Casanova, their amazing adventures together, and you also experience the twist their lives take. Caterina emerges from her relationship with Casanova a wiser woman, though with memories of an unforgettable man. Lynn-Davis' writing is a joy to read. I look forward to her next novels.
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