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The Chef's Apprentice: A Novel
In a world of violence and intrigue, who guards the truth? It is 1498, the dawn of the Renaissance, and Venice teems with rumors of an ancient book that holds the secret to unimaginable power. It is an alchemist's dream, with recipes for gold, immortality, and undying love. Everyone, rich and poor alike, speculates about the long-buried secrets scrawled in its pages and where it could possibly be hidden within the labyrinthine city. But while those who seek the book will stop at nothing to get it, those who know will die to protect it. As a storm of intrigue and desire circles the republic that grew from the sea, Luciano, a penniless orphan with a quick wit and an even faster hand, is plucked up by an illustrious chef and hired, for reasons he cannot yet begin to understand, as an apprentice in the palace kitchen. There, in the lavish home of the most powerful man in Venice, he is initiated into the chef's rich and aromatic world, with all its seductive ingredients and secrets. Luciano's loyalty to his street friends and the passion he holds for a convent girl named Francesca remain, but it is not long before he, too, is caught up in the madness. After he witnesses a shocking murder in the Palace dining room, he realizes that nothing is as it seems and that no one, not even those he's come to rely on most, can be trusted. Armed with a precocious mind and an insatiable curiosity, Luciano embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth. What he discovers will swing open the shutters of his mind, inflame his deepest desires, and leave an indelible mark on his soul. Rich with the luxurious colors and textures of Venice, The Book of Unholy Mischief delights the senses and breathes fresh life into an age defined by intellectual revival and artistic vibrancy. A luminous and seductive novel, it is, at its heart, a high-spirited tribute to the fruits of knowledge and the extraordinary power of those who hold its key. In a world of violence an d in trigue, who guards the truth?
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2007
62 people are currently reading
2814 people want to read
About the author
Elle Newmark
5 books84 followersElle Newmark is an award-winning writer whose books are inspired by her travels. She and her husband, a retired physician, have two grown children and five grandchildren. They live in the hills north of San Diego.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 537 reviews
February 1, 2020
I found this book to be quite entertaining and interesting. Colourful and lots of history (mostly Italy, which is a rather new area for me) and atmosphere. And for those interested in food, this is a book with interesting dishes described! Only thing is I would have edited the content a bit, it could have been a bit more compact and thus more readable I think. But on the whole, great read. More to follow, say 3.7/3.8 rating for now!
1498. A young streetorphan Luciano is taken in by a chef (or 'Maestro')in a palace of the 'doge' of Venice and gets taught the cooking trade, while learning a lot about dark politics in the city and searching for a mysterious book which promises eternal life and love, dangerous times.....
1498. A young streetorphan Luciano is taken in by a chef (or 'Maestro')in a palace of the 'doge' of Venice and gets taught the cooking trade, while learning a lot about dark politics in the city and searching for a mysterious book which promises eternal life and love, dangerous times.....
February 4, 2009
It's historical fiction--about a chef and his apprentice. It's immediately obvious why I would be drawn to this book; it's set in Rennaisance Venice, circa 1498. (For a while all the historical fiction was set in Elizabethan England, but now that's been done to death, so I guess Rennaisance Italy is going to be the new fad.)
Luciano is an orphan living on the streets. He steals whatever he needs, imagines a better life in the New World, and scrapes by. Until one day he is caught trying to steal a pomegranate. Not by a stall keeper or watchman, but by the Doge's chef, Chef Ferrero. "That's not the way, boy", is all he says to Luciano. He drags the boy back to the palace, washes him, feeds him, and sets him to work. Luciano is mystified as to why the chef chose him of all boys, a ragged filthy thief. The chef has his own reasons, and it's not long before Luciano begins to look up to Chef Ferrero as a father figure, and strive to please him and better himself.
Chef Ferrero is gifted. Unafraid of new things, he snaps up delicacies from the New World--potatoes and maize, among other herbs and spices, and comes up with sinfully delicious recipes. Most of the other cooks look at him askance because of this, but they one and all ackowledge his genius. And it is to this man that Luciano is now apprenticed. There is one catch, though. Luciano is in love--or thinks he is, anyway--with a girl he sees in the market. Her name is Francesca, and unfortunately, she is a nun, or will be after she takes vows. His nebulous attachment to a convent girl is a big impediment to Chef Ferrero's plans, although Luciano is sure he can find a way to satisfy them both. Not to mention his old friends still on the streets. Luciano steals scraps and leaves them hidden near the garbage pile, but it's not long before one of them becomes very demanding and jealous.
During this time in Venice, a rumor was sweeping the city about a magical book. Some said the book held the secrets to eternal life, or how to turn lead into gold, others that it contained the Gnostic Gospels. The Doge, old and dying of syphilis, wants the book, hoping it contains a recipe for a magical elixir to preserve his own life. The Council of Ten wants the book, hoping it turns out to be the Gnostic Gospels, so they can stage a coup against Rome. Of all the city, only one person knows the truth about the book--Chef Ferrero. Not only that, but he is in fact the book's owner--it's guardian, more like. It's not a book of magic spells or the lost Gnostic Gospels, but instead a book of knowledge--forbidden knowledge, disguised, of all things, as a cookbook. Chef Ferrero is one of a loose confederation of men who value knowledge above all else. They call themselves Guardians, and believe, heretically, that the Roman Catholic Church is an unneccessary establishment, an impediment to God rather than an intercessor. Most of them believe Jesus was just a teacher. That's not the only thing, though. They preserve works of science, philosophy, history, even animal husbandry; many of the ideas that great societies once had but lost in the Middle Ages, either through forgetfulness or the Church's purging.
It's told in first person by Luciano as an old man. It's mostly linear, but there is one chapter that leaps ahead by many years, when Luciano talks to Chef Ferrero's old master and finds out why Ferrero wanted Luciano, specifically, as his apprentice.
~~~
I do not want to read another review calling this a Da Vinci Code wannabe. It's not. There are no descendents of Jesus, first of all, no scandals or plots or well formed secret societies (the guardians each only know of two other guardians, first of all; second the only "plot" is the preservation of knowledge). The Guardians are watching and waiting for a time when they can share their knowledge and help raise mankind to greatness. The divinity of Jesus is questioned, certainly, and there's no doubt Ferrero disbelieves it. And all the parts that could remind anyone even remotely of Dan Brown's novel take up less than one chapter. It's not the main focus of the novel at all.
Luciano is an orphan living on the streets. He steals whatever he needs, imagines a better life in the New World, and scrapes by. Until one day he is caught trying to steal a pomegranate. Not by a stall keeper or watchman, but by the Doge's chef, Chef Ferrero. "That's not the way, boy", is all he says to Luciano. He drags the boy back to the palace, washes him, feeds him, and sets him to work. Luciano is mystified as to why the chef chose him of all boys, a ragged filthy thief. The chef has his own reasons, and it's not long before Luciano begins to look up to Chef Ferrero as a father figure, and strive to please him and better himself.
Chef Ferrero is gifted. Unafraid of new things, he snaps up delicacies from the New World--potatoes and maize, among other herbs and spices, and comes up with sinfully delicious recipes. Most of the other cooks look at him askance because of this, but they one and all ackowledge his genius. And it is to this man that Luciano is now apprenticed. There is one catch, though. Luciano is in love--or thinks he is, anyway--with a girl he sees in the market. Her name is Francesca, and unfortunately, she is a nun, or will be after she takes vows. His nebulous attachment to a convent girl is a big impediment to Chef Ferrero's plans, although Luciano is sure he can find a way to satisfy them both. Not to mention his old friends still on the streets. Luciano steals scraps and leaves them hidden near the garbage pile, but it's not long before one of them becomes very demanding and jealous.
During this time in Venice, a rumor was sweeping the city about a magical book. Some said the book held the secrets to eternal life, or how to turn lead into gold, others that it contained the Gnostic Gospels. The Doge, old and dying of syphilis, wants the book, hoping it contains a recipe for a magical elixir to preserve his own life. The Council of Ten wants the book, hoping it turns out to be the Gnostic Gospels, so they can stage a coup against Rome. Of all the city, only one person knows the truth about the book--Chef Ferrero. Not only that, but he is in fact the book's owner--it's guardian, more like. It's not a book of magic spells or the lost Gnostic Gospels, but instead a book of knowledge--forbidden knowledge, disguised, of all things, as a cookbook. Chef Ferrero is one of a loose confederation of men who value knowledge above all else. They call themselves Guardians, and believe, heretically, that the Roman Catholic Church is an unneccessary establishment, an impediment to God rather than an intercessor. Most of them believe Jesus was just a teacher. That's not the only thing, though. They preserve works of science, philosophy, history, even animal husbandry; many of the ideas that great societies once had but lost in the Middle Ages, either through forgetfulness or the Church's purging.
It's told in first person by Luciano as an old man. It's mostly linear, but there is one chapter that leaps ahead by many years, when Luciano talks to Chef Ferrero's old master and finds out why Ferrero wanted Luciano, specifically, as his apprentice.
~~~
I do not want to read another review calling this a Da Vinci Code wannabe. It's not. There are no descendents of Jesus, first of all, no scandals or plots or well formed secret societies (the guardians each only know of two other guardians, first of all; second the only "plot" is the preservation of knowledge). The Guardians are watching and waiting for a time when they can share their knowledge and help raise mankind to greatness. The divinity of Jesus is questioned, certainly, and there's no doubt Ferrero disbelieves it. And all the parts that could remind anyone even remotely of Dan Brown's novel take up less than one chapter. It's not the main focus of the novel at all.
February 7, 2016
Apesar da capa doce e rosa, o conteúdo é logo de início um choque. A crueldade e frieza reservada aos mais pobres e humildes, incluindo pequenas crianças orfãs, é de estremecer. O que estas crianças têem de suportar e fazer para sobreviver é desumano.
É mesmo de uma dessas crianças, um rapaz, que este livro nos conta.
Luciano nasceu com uma marca escura na face o que é tido como um sinal de mau agoiro. No entanto, para um homem com segredos e algo a espiar é um sinal de que deve proteger e educar este pobre órfão.
Luciano é então admitido na cozinha do doge como aprendiz, mas o que ele vai aprender naquela cozinha é que a crueldade do mundo, fora das luxuriantes portas do palácio, em nada se compara com o que ele vê através desta cozinha. Os crimes e os planos maquiavélicos criados ali, vão levar Luciano a uma espiral de acontecimentos trágicos.
Um livro m-a-r-a-v-i-l-h-o-s-o que nos faz apaixonar pelos sabores e cheiros mais vulgares. Esta é uma leitura simplesmente apaixonante que recomendo.
É mesmo de uma dessas crianças, um rapaz, que este livro nos conta.
Luciano nasceu com uma marca escura na face o que é tido como um sinal de mau agoiro. No entanto, para um homem com segredos e algo a espiar é um sinal de que deve proteger e educar este pobre órfão.
Luciano é então admitido na cozinha do doge como aprendiz, mas o que ele vai aprender naquela cozinha é que a crueldade do mundo, fora das luxuriantes portas do palácio, em nada se compara com o que ele vê através desta cozinha. Os crimes e os planos maquiavélicos criados ali, vão levar Luciano a uma espiral de acontecimentos trágicos.
Um livro m-a-r-a-v-i-l-h-o-s-o que nos faz apaixonar pelos sabores e cheiros mais vulgares. Esta é uma leitura simplesmente apaixonante que recomendo.
March 19, 2010
In the middle of a party, ever start thinking of the book you left at home and long to just curl up and finish the story you had started? The Book of Unholy Mischief by Elle Newmark made me do that very thing. But then, I'm equal parts nerd and book lover.
Certain key phrases always make me perk up when considering a novel - the mystery of an ancient book, the promise of heavenly food descriptions (nerd, book lover, and voluptuary), throw in a dash of something decadent like Renaissance Venice and I am intrigued. Does The Book of Unholy Mischief deliver - oh, yes it does! Worth staying home from a party to read any day.
First there is Luciano, the mischievous but innocent orphan, rescued from the streets by the secretive Chef Ferrero, head chef at the Doge's palace. The Doge is dying of syphilis and to combat the course of nature, he is scouring all of Venice for a book rumored to contain the secret of immortality, using torture and murder to gain his ends. But the malevolent Doge is not the only one looking for it - the terrifying cappe nere, an elite force with agendas of their own, and even Pope Borgia of Rome want the book of magic for their own uses. As the Chef's apprentice, Luciano at first only wants to become a chef himself and perhaps win the lovely nun-to-be Francesca's heart. But Luciano is too curious for his own good. Soon he makes a connection between the unusually learned Chef with his amazing dishes that can sway the moods of powerful men and the hidden book of magic for which everyone is searching. What secret can his maestro be guarding under lock and key?
"Food has a power, Luciano. Each dish works its own magic, a kind of alchemy that changes our bodies and our minds....Consider the effect of melted cheese. Soft, warm, comforting, so easy to eat you barely need to chew. It makes a man relax. Then came the dumplings. Plain, common food to inspire trust, to awaken a sense of shared humanity and the enjoyment of simple things....Food can manipulate men's hearts and minds."
There is plenty of food in this colorful, inventive novel - but the mouthwatering descriptions are elevated by the rumination on food's power and effect on people, how food connects us to hidden parts of ourselves and to each other. Newmark cleverly intertwines the magic of food with the mysteries of alchemy and the burgeoning age of enlightenment. And then you've got Venice at the height of her power as a backdrop. All these elements combined make The Book of Unholy Mischief by Elle Newmark a dazzling feast that fully satisfies. Only thing missing perhaps are recipes - I want to make the fabled Sauce Nepenthes!
Certain key phrases always make me perk up when considering a novel - the mystery of an ancient book, the promise of heavenly food descriptions (nerd, book lover, and voluptuary), throw in a dash of something decadent like Renaissance Venice and I am intrigued. Does The Book of Unholy Mischief deliver - oh, yes it does! Worth staying home from a party to read any day.
First there is Luciano, the mischievous but innocent orphan, rescued from the streets by the secretive Chef Ferrero, head chef at the Doge's palace. The Doge is dying of syphilis and to combat the course of nature, he is scouring all of Venice for a book rumored to contain the secret of immortality, using torture and murder to gain his ends. But the malevolent Doge is not the only one looking for it - the terrifying cappe nere, an elite force with agendas of their own, and even Pope Borgia of Rome want the book of magic for their own uses. As the Chef's apprentice, Luciano at first only wants to become a chef himself and perhaps win the lovely nun-to-be Francesca's heart. But Luciano is too curious for his own good. Soon he makes a connection between the unusually learned Chef with his amazing dishes that can sway the moods of powerful men and the hidden book of magic for which everyone is searching. What secret can his maestro be guarding under lock and key?
"Food has a power, Luciano. Each dish works its own magic, a kind of alchemy that changes our bodies and our minds....Consider the effect of melted cheese. Soft, warm, comforting, so easy to eat you barely need to chew. It makes a man relax. Then came the dumplings. Plain, common food to inspire trust, to awaken a sense of shared humanity and the enjoyment of simple things....Food can manipulate men's hearts and minds."
There is plenty of food in this colorful, inventive novel - but the mouthwatering descriptions are elevated by the rumination on food's power and effect on people, how food connects us to hidden parts of ourselves and to each other. Newmark cleverly intertwines the magic of food with the mysteries of alchemy and the burgeoning age of enlightenment. And then you've got Venice at the height of her power as a backdrop. All these elements combined make The Book of Unholy Mischief by Elle Newmark a dazzling feast that fully satisfies. Only thing missing perhaps are recipes - I want to make the fabled Sauce Nepenthes!
June 10, 2024
4.5 stars. Heel mooi omschreven allemaal.
Een slow read die soms poëtische beschrijvingen erin heeft.
Wat aan het begin een mysterie is steeds, wordt naarmate het einde nadert steeds spannender.
Het was een heel vermakelijk en goed geschreven boek.
Een slow read die soms poëtische beschrijvingen erin heeft.
Wat aan het begin een mysterie is steeds, wordt naarmate het einde nadert steeds spannender.
Het was een heel vermakelijk en goed geschreven boek.
May 4, 2019
The plot of this book is set in 1498 Venice. The protagonist is Luciano who is a teenage orphan living on the streets. One day he steals a pomegranate: an act seen by the head cook of the doge, the head of state, of Venice. He takes Luciano off the streets, feeds him and makes him his apprentice. A few weeks in his new life, rumours start to rise about a mysterious book somewhere in Venice. Nobody is sure what the secrets in the book are: is it a recipe for eternal life, how to make gold, the recipe for a love potion or does it contain secrets which will shake the balance of power in the city? The book seems to contain exactly whatever the one pursuing it desires most. Around the palace of the doge, where Luciano works, there are many intrigues and plots to get the book. This is intertwined with the struggle for power in Venice, especially because the old doge is dying. As a servant, Luciano sees many people pass through the chambers of the doge and he listens in on many incriminating conversations. The players in this game over power and ownership of the secrets in the book do not shrink away from murder.
(...)
Another great element in this book is the role of food. It feels as if food is the actual protagonist in this book. There are lengthy descriptions of the food characters eat and the dishes Ferraro prepares for the doge and his guests. First, I thought Elle Newmark just really liked food, but it soon becomes clear that food has a bigger role. Food is used to calm people down, to manipulate them and to steer the course of history and even has the potential to be dangerous when used wrongly. Ferraro choices his dishes in such a way as to manipulate the thoughts and decisions of everyone who eats them aided by ingredients from his mysterious garden. The other people working in the kitchen look with suspicion at his cooking because it is sinful and looks like magic. Luciano is fascinated by the power of his cooking though, and me and Luciano both suspect more than one of Ferraro’s secret ingredients are some kind of drugs. I like the role of food in this book. It gives the book a very original and distinctive element and it made me appreciate the food I ate weeks after finishing this book. Especially how Ferraro forces Luciano to eat a grape with full intention. To focus on the taste, texture and smell. At that moment Luciano truly learns how to taste food and his career as a cook apprentice can start. Newmark’s descriptions are so real that you grave the food the characters get to eat, and you can even smell the dishes while you read about them.
(...)
This is only part of the review. Read the full review at Bookworms United
(...)
Another great element in this book is the role of food. It feels as if food is the actual protagonist in this book. There are lengthy descriptions of the food characters eat and the dishes Ferraro prepares for the doge and his guests. First, I thought Elle Newmark just really liked food, but it soon becomes clear that food has a bigger role. Food is used to calm people down, to manipulate them and to steer the course of history and even has the potential to be dangerous when used wrongly. Ferraro choices his dishes in such a way as to manipulate the thoughts and decisions of everyone who eats them aided by ingredients from his mysterious garden. The other people working in the kitchen look with suspicion at his cooking because it is sinful and looks like magic. Luciano is fascinated by the power of his cooking though, and me and Luciano both suspect more than one of Ferraro’s secret ingredients are some kind of drugs. I like the role of food in this book. It gives the book a very original and distinctive element and it made me appreciate the food I ate weeks after finishing this book. Especially how Ferraro forces Luciano to eat a grape with full intention. To focus on the taste, texture and smell. At that moment Luciano truly learns how to taste food and his career as a cook apprentice can start. Newmark’s descriptions are so real that you grave the food the characters get to eat, and you can even smell the dishes while you read about them.
(...)
This is only part of the review. Read the full review at Bookworms United
February 19, 2009
It was good. I liked the second half better than the first half, and I probably would've like the first half more if I hadn't been so distracted by other books while trying to start this one. This book was easy to set down. The quote on the back of the book said it was a page-turner. I would have to disagree with that.
While it was well written and an enjoyable story to read, it just didn't excite me.
It's about an adolescent boy who is trying to figure everything out about himself, life, and a mysterious book of secrets. Personally, I just wanted to whack the boy upside the head with the book. He was a bit frustrating.
If you like food, you will probably like this book. If you like Italy, you will probably like this book. If you have a short attention span, you might not like this book.
How's that for a mixed review?
While it was well written and an enjoyable story to read, it just didn't excite me.
It's about an adolescent boy who is trying to figure everything out about himself, life, and a mysterious book of secrets. Personally, I just wanted to whack the boy upside the head with the book. He was a bit frustrating.
If you like food, you will probably like this book. If you like Italy, you will probably like this book. If you have a short attention span, you might not like this book.
How's that for a mixed review?
January 20, 2009
More like 2.5 stars. Quick and kind of fun, but the writing goes way over the top sometimes and is quite clunky other times. The totally unrealistic plot goes "Da Vinci Code" (not a compliment) when the "big secret" gets introduced. What really shines are the descriptions of the food.
December 17, 2015
Published:30/12/2008
Author: Elle Newmark
Recommended for: fans of mystery books
This was a very intriguing book, full of mystery and secrets. It took about 2pages to get into the story and get hooked on it, it was fast paced and kept you wondering what the 'unholy book of mischief' was about. It was brilliantly written and you learn alot from the book. The books it's self is like a book of unholy mischief. I would recommend it for anybody who likes books full of mystery, secrets, intrigue and adventure. You feel like your in the book and doing what they are doing with the great description of the setting, surroundings and characters you feel like you know them all.
I couldn't put this book down at all! I thought it was absolutely amazing and when I did put it down between chapters it was still on my mind, the characters are amazing, very well described and fit perfectly in the story and setting. I would recommend this book to anybody who is wanting to try this genre out, I don't think you'll be disappointed. I cant fault this book at all.
This book is set in 1498, it features a orphan boy called Luciano who is chosen to be an apprentice chef at the doge's palace. He goes from living on the streets of Venice scrounging for food and causing mischief, to helping in the doge's palace, this gives the book a feel good factor straight away as you already feel happy for Luciano. While he is learning the art of cooking he suddenly finds himself on the hunt with his maestro for an ancient tomb. but is the head chef hiding important information from him? This book is full of mystery, twists and turns, and a little hint of romance!
This is by far one of the best books I have ever read, I am so glad that I managed to come across this book and I would definitely look out for more books by Elle Newmark
Author: Elle Newmark
Recommended for: fans of mystery books
This was a very intriguing book, full of mystery and secrets. It took about 2pages to get into the story and get hooked on it, it was fast paced and kept you wondering what the 'unholy book of mischief' was about. It was brilliantly written and you learn alot from the book. The books it's self is like a book of unholy mischief. I would recommend it for anybody who likes books full of mystery, secrets, intrigue and adventure. You feel like your in the book and doing what they are doing with the great description of the setting, surroundings and characters you feel like you know them all.
I couldn't put this book down at all! I thought it was absolutely amazing and when I did put it down between chapters it was still on my mind, the characters are amazing, very well described and fit perfectly in the story and setting. I would recommend this book to anybody who is wanting to try this genre out, I don't think you'll be disappointed. I cant fault this book at all.
This book is set in 1498, it features a orphan boy called Luciano who is chosen to be an apprentice chef at the doge's palace. He goes from living on the streets of Venice scrounging for food and causing mischief, to helping in the doge's palace, this gives the book a feel good factor straight away as you already feel happy for Luciano. While he is learning the art of cooking he suddenly finds himself on the hunt with his maestro for an ancient tomb. but is the head chef hiding important information from him? This book is full of mystery, twists and turns, and a little hint of romance!
This is by far one of the best books I have ever read, I am so glad that I managed to come across this book and I would definitely look out for more books by Elle Newmark
February 12, 2013
O aprendiz de Veneza é um livro com todos os ingredientes para me encantar:
Veneza, história, renascimento, inquisição, cozinhas, cozinheiros, comida, gatos, orfãos, pobreza, riqueza, poder, amor, coragem, sacrifício, segredos, livros...
A época – Renascentismo, o terror da inquisição e a coragem dos que lutam para salvarem e manterem os seus princípios.
Passa-se em Veneza, uma cidade misteriosa e pela qual tenho um imenso fascínio, pelo que dela conheço e desconheço.
As personagens principais são Luciano, um orfão que vivia nas ruas, com o seu gato Bernardo e que foi adoptado pelo fabuloso Chef Ferrero, cozinheiro principal do doge de Veneza e possuidor de segredos de cozinha e de outros.
Ao longo de páginas (poucas) senti-me envolvida na confecção de pratos mágicos, enquanto assistia à aprendizagem de Luciano nos mistérios da vida e nas artes da cozinha. “A vida é como um soufflé, transitório e extraordinário”
A escrita é simples, mas muito envolvente.
Gostei muito, muito!
Veneza, história, renascimento, inquisição, cozinhas, cozinheiros, comida, gatos, orfãos, pobreza, riqueza, poder, amor, coragem, sacrifício, segredos, livros...
A época – Renascentismo, o terror da inquisição e a coragem dos que lutam para salvarem e manterem os seus princípios.
Passa-se em Veneza, uma cidade misteriosa e pela qual tenho um imenso fascínio, pelo que dela conheço e desconheço.
As personagens principais são Luciano, um orfão que vivia nas ruas, com o seu gato Bernardo e que foi adoptado pelo fabuloso Chef Ferrero, cozinheiro principal do doge de Veneza e possuidor de segredos de cozinha e de outros.
Ao longo de páginas (poucas) senti-me envolvida na confecção de pratos mágicos, enquanto assistia à aprendizagem de Luciano nos mistérios da vida e nas artes da cozinha. “A vida é como um soufflé, transitório e extraordinário”
A escrita é simples, mas muito envolvente.
Gostei muito, muito!
January 4, 2009
This is a really good read!!! The detailed description of Venice life and culture in the late 1400's is amazing. Plus there is a good story line with intrigue, the culinary arts, religion, politics, dungeons, mischief and learning.
I really enjoy these kinds of historical glimpses, even if it is a novel and someone's interpretation. This is a good one.
I think the actual title of the book in paper form is "Bones of the Dead". I read it in e-book form titled "The Book of Unholy Mischief".
I really enjoy these kinds of historical glimpses, even if it is a novel and someone's interpretation. This is a good one.
I think the actual title of the book in paper form is "Bones of the Dead". I read it in e-book form titled "The Book of Unholy Mischief".
April 29, 2013
Loved the prose. Made me want go back and edit my own. Sheer beauty. The story left me wanting but how it was told was all craft. Well done.
September 4, 2024
It’s Venice, 1498, the dawn of the Renaissance. A street urchin is unexpectedly helped by a world-famous chef, becoming a kitchen apprentice in the palace of the Doge. Luciano doesn’t know why he has been favored, but perhaps the famous chef has a reason for the selection. But it’s a world of intrigue and poisonings, where Popes get dispatched overnight, and Doges are selected for their infirmity. The young orphan will have his hands full as he learns more than he ever wanted to know.
Tainted by iniquity, Venice invites moral surrender not with a playful wink, but with the understanding that she is, and always has been, sluttish under her regal disguise.
As Luciano learns the cooking trade, he also becomes involved in the citywide search for a magical book, one which is said to contain the recipe for immortality. The secret police become involved and no one is safe when the dying Doge will do anything to get the pages into his grasp. Meanwhile, Luciano falls in love with a nun’s initiate, while fending off the envy of a fellow apprentice who is jealous of the young man’s sudden good fortune. Then there are his old friends who still live on the streets and feel Luciano should share the wealth. Only the shining example of the famous chef keeps the orphan on the right track, but even that is hard to do in such harsh times.
The chef is considered the greatest in Europe, because he uses little-known ingredients for his dishes. If he wants to protect someone, then heady herbs are added to the meals so that a deadly enemy becomes a laughing friend as the food is consumed. The chef also has a secret book which contains his recipes, but perhaps the cook is keeping secrets that even Luciano cannot comprehend. And why did the chef choose this wild boy to be his personal apprentice?
This book mixes historical fiction with a bit of mystery, as the reader tries to determine different angles to the story. Is the secret book really an alchemist’s dream? Will Venice succeed against Rome? Will the convent girl return Luciano’s love? And who, among all these thieves, can be trusted? I started the reading on a high note, as the descriptions of the central character and his culinary savior kept the storyline moving along. It starts to bog down a bit as the revelations are revealed, and I didn’t really like most of the characters (including Luciano), but the Venetian atmosphere prevailed, providing a sense of underworld unease. In the author section, Elle Newmark states that her primary objective was to tell a good tale, and I think she achieved that goal. There are inaccuracies, however, which are important when writing historical fiction. For example, in one throwaway sentence, a hummingbird flits by the garden. How could that be? Hummingbirds are New World birds and certainly weren’t in Venice in the 15th century, even as captives, as they would have died fairly quickly. Not a big deal, but it struck me as an error and took my attention from the plot. So, I think three stars is a decent rating.
Book Season = Winter (watery graves)
Tainted by iniquity, Venice invites moral surrender not with a playful wink, but with the understanding that she is, and always has been, sluttish under her regal disguise.
As Luciano learns the cooking trade, he also becomes involved in the citywide search for a magical book, one which is said to contain the recipe for immortality. The secret police become involved and no one is safe when the dying Doge will do anything to get the pages into his grasp. Meanwhile, Luciano falls in love with a nun’s initiate, while fending off the envy of a fellow apprentice who is jealous of the young man’s sudden good fortune. Then there are his old friends who still live on the streets and feel Luciano should share the wealth. Only the shining example of the famous chef keeps the orphan on the right track, but even that is hard to do in such harsh times.
The chef is considered the greatest in Europe, because he uses little-known ingredients for his dishes. If he wants to protect someone, then heady herbs are added to the meals so that a deadly enemy becomes a laughing friend as the food is consumed. The chef also has a secret book which contains his recipes, but perhaps the cook is keeping secrets that even Luciano cannot comprehend. And why did the chef choose this wild boy to be his personal apprentice?
This book mixes historical fiction with a bit of mystery, as the reader tries to determine different angles to the story. Is the secret book really an alchemist’s dream? Will Venice succeed against Rome? Will the convent girl return Luciano’s love? And who, among all these thieves, can be trusted? I started the reading on a high note, as the descriptions of the central character and his culinary savior kept the storyline moving along. It starts to bog down a bit as the revelations are revealed, and I didn’t really like most of the characters (including Luciano), but the Venetian atmosphere prevailed, providing a sense of underworld unease. In the author section, Elle Newmark states that her primary objective was to tell a good tale, and I think she achieved that goal. There are inaccuracies, however, which are important when writing historical fiction. For example, in one throwaway sentence, a hummingbird flits by the garden. How could that be? Hummingbirds are New World birds and certainly weren’t in Venice in the 15th century, even as captives, as they would have died fairly quickly. Not a big deal, but it struck me as an error and took my attention from the plot. So, I think three stars is a decent rating.
Book Season = Winter (watery graves)
July 10, 2018
There is a lot of wonderful atmosphere in this book, beautiful descriptions of food and places and people...but ugh, the main character is such an idiot. I've been simultaneously reading several different books about impetuous teenage boys (not on purpose, this just happens sometimes) and this guy is the MOST frustrating.
July 10, 2011
One might think this is just another story of love, loss and life’s lessons. Boh, one might say with a dismissive wave of the hand, there are plenty of stories like that around. What makes this one different is a combination of straightforward storytelling interspersed with bits of philosophical musings and of course a lot of mystery.
It was yet another book I had chosen at random. How can I resist a book with such a beguiling name? It whispered of long ago times, of adventure and desire – all key ingredients in my own recipe of a good book.
The story begins with a life changing event. Luciano, a young orphan living on the streets is taken under the protection of none other than the Doge’s personal chef, the Maestro. The time is 1498 and the city is Venice, home of religious upheavals and dazzling opulence. It is in the Doge’s kitchen that Luciano finds out about the book, a magnificent object coveted by the rich and powerful. Even though many are looking for it, nobody actually knows what it contains and imagination fills in the gaps until it seems this precious object is some sort of key to a Pandora’s Box of desires. Some want it to get rich, believing it contains secrets of alchemy, some believe it can bring them love and others, immortality.
The search becomes so desperate that the whole city is in turmoil, people are imprisoned and tortured, forced to run for their lives. Luciano is soon caught in a web of intrigue and only his streetwise instincts manage to save his life. Although only a boy, he is forced to make decisions that will greatly influence his future life. In love with Francesca, a beautiful girl confined to a monastery, devoted to Marco and Domingo, his friends on the street, and also to his Maestro, who seems to be more than his mentor, the young boy goes through a myriad of adventures, learns a few hard lessons together with some interesting cooking secrets.
Ah, the food! To say this is a book about cooking would not be entirely accurate and yet the mentioning of delicious culinary concoctions and the smell of spices pervade nearly every page with a tantalizing subtlety bordering on erotic. The way the author describes various dishes and their effects on those who eat them give the impression that this in no less than some sort of magic. It reminded me of the movie Chocolat – wouldn’t it be amazing to have such power over people’s senses and all through food!
This book was a feast, one page at a time. I devoured it in two days, reading in every spare moment, resenting the times when I had to stop (life does get in the way sometimes), eager to get back to it at the earliest opportunity. The story is engaging, the words just flow and even though this is no intricate volume to ponder over and dissect, it satisfied my appetite for a good story from the beginning to the end.
It was yet another book I had chosen at random. How can I resist a book with such a beguiling name? It whispered of long ago times, of adventure and desire – all key ingredients in my own recipe of a good book.
The story begins with a life changing event. Luciano, a young orphan living on the streets is taken under the protection of none other than the Doge’s personal chef, the Maestro. The time is 1498 and the city is Venice, home of religious upheavals and dazzling opulence. It is in the Doge’s kitchen that Luciano finds out about the book, a magnificent object coveted by the rich and powerful. Even though many are looking for it, nobody actually knows what it contains and imagination fills in the gaps until it seems this precious object is some sort of key to a Pandora’s Box of desires. Some want it to get rich, believing it contains secrets of alchemy, some believe it can bring them love and others, immortality.
The search becomes so desperate that the whole city is in turmoil, people are imprisoned and tortured, forced to run for their lives. Luciano is soon caught in a web of intrigue and only his streetwise instincts manage to save his life. Although only a boy, he is forced to make decisions that will greatly influence his future life. In love with Francesca, a beautiful girl confined to a monastery, devoted to Marco and Domingo, his friends on the street, and also to his Maestro, who seems to be more than his mentor, the young boy goes through a myriad of adventures, learns a few hard lessons together with some interesting cooking secrets.
Ah, the food! To say this is a book about cooking would not be entirely accurate and yet the mentioning of delicious culinary concoctions and the smell of spices pervade nearly every page with a tantalizing subtlety bordering on erotic. The way the author describes various dishes and their effects on those who eat them give the impression that this in no less than some sort of magic. It reminded me of the movie Chocolat – wouldn’t it be amazing to have such power over people’s senses and all through food!
This book was a feast, one page at a time. I devoured it in two days, reading in every spare moment, resenting the times when I had to stop (life does get in the way sometimes), eager to get back to it at the earliest opportunity. The story is engaging, the words just flow and even though this is no intricate volume to ponder over and dissect, it satisfied my appetite for a good story from the beginning to the end.
April 2, 2012
What promised to be an interesting story ended up being a chronically narrow historical portrayal--all characters that were connected in any way to the Catholic church (or Christianity in general) were written as unenlightened, corrupt, or irredeemably evil. At first I wasn't sure if Newmark had an ax to grind or had inadvertently written an uneven chronicle. Aside from the completely unbalanced aspect there were numerous anachronisms in the tale ranging from silly to distracting and some of the writing was annoyingly repetitive or over-done.
Even with the previously mentioned flaws I would have given the book 3 stars solely for the food descriptions except I couldn't get past the author's offensively blasphemous and disrespectful explanation of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus being a hoax and a subsequent conspiracy of lies being the basis for the Christian faith. And to add insult to injury this seemed randomly dropped in rather than an organic part of the story. Some might argue this is just fiction. Yes, but is it too much to hope for a little subtlety and finesse?
Bottom line, if you're going to venture into this territory you'd better be darn good at it. In my opinion Newmark's skill wasn't sufficient to pull off this kind of story as it read like a flamboyantly biased re-writing of history. I wished she had she stuck closer to where her skill obviously lies, in writing about food, and left the history to someone else.
I'd much rather have spent my time reading something less vitriolic and lopsided, something more enjoyable--say a cookbook.
Even with the previously mentioned flaws I would have given the book 3 stars solely for the food descriptions except I couldn't get past the author's offensively blasphemous and disrespectful explanation of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus being a hoax and a subsequent conspiracy of lies being the basis for the Christian faith. And to add insult to injury this seemed randomly dropped in rather than an organic part of the story. Some might argue this is just fiction. Yes, but is it too much to hope for a little subtlety and finesse?
Bottom line, if you're going to venture into this territory you'd better be darn good at it. In my opinion Newmark's skill wasn't sufficient to pull off this kind of story as it read like a flamboyantly biased re-writing of history. I wished she had she stuck closer to where her skill obviously lies, in writing about food, and left the history to someone else.
I'd much rather have spent my time reading something less vitriolic and lopsided, something more enjoyable--say a cookbook.
July 2, 2010
Well, I wrote this book and the research alone was an education. Here's a brief synopsis and a few reviews:
It is 1498, the dawn of the Renaissance, and Venice teems with rumors of an ancient book said to hold secrets of seduction and power. But while some will stop at nothing to find the book, others will die to protect it.
As intrigue grips the city, Luciano, a quick-witted, street-wise orphan gets caught up in the madness. He is taken as an apprentice to the doge's chef, and in the palace kitchen he is initiated into the enigmatic chef's aromatic world—itself alive with potent secrets.
After Luciano witnesses a strange and shocking murder in the palace dining room, he embarks on a perilous journey to discover the truth. What he discovers will swing open the shutters of his mind, inflame his deepest desires, and leave an indelible mark on his soul.
"Highly flavored...A richness of atmosphere that...brings the city sparklingly to life."
—The New York Times
"Intelligence is the daily special on Newmark's menu, served with facility and skill."
—Kirkus
"Marvelous descriptions. This debut comes alive."
—Library Journal
"Vibrant...As captivating as the streets of Venice itself."
—Historical Novels Review
"Readers will savor every mouth-watering word."
—bookreporter.com
"An inventive and delicious page turner."
—Kate Jacobs #1 New York Times bestselling author
It is 1498, the dawn of the Renaissance, and Venice teems with rumors of an ancient book said to hold secrets of seduction and power. But while some will stop at nothing to find the book, others will die to protect it.
As intrigue grips the city, Luciano, a quick-witted, street-wise orphan gets caught up in the madness. He is taken as an apprentice to the doge's chef, and in the palace kitchen he is initiated into the enigmatic chef's aromatic world—itself alive with potent secrets.
After Luciano witnesses a strange and shocking murder in the palace dining room, he embarks on a perilous journey to discover the truth. What he discovers will swing open the shutters of his mind, inflame his deepest desires, and leave an indelible mark on his soul.
"Highly flavored...A richness of atmosphere that...brings the city sparklingly to life."
—The New York Times
"Intelligence is the daily special on Newmark's menu, served with facility and skill."
—Kirkus
"Marvelous descriptions. This debut comes alive."
—Library Journal
"Vibrant...As captivating as the streets of Venice itself."
—Historical Novels Review
"Readers will savor every mouth-watering word."
—bookreporter.com
"An inventive and delicious page turner."
—Kate Jacobs #1 New York Times bestselling author
August 19, 2012
This historical novel is about Luciano, a street urchin who become apprenticed to the doge's cook in 1498 Venice. As a consequence of his apprenticeship he not only learns about philosophy and hidden knowledge from his master, he also gets caught up in the intrigue around the search for a book containing this hidden knowledge.
While the setting and characters were quite enchanting (not to mention the incredible descriptions of food), the novel just didn't go far enough. Newmark introduces the idea of the ability of recipes and cooking to impart philosophical lessons about life, emotions, and the world around us. But the examples she puts into the book are too easy, too straightforward, and thus devoid of any real revelation. She also fails to go far enough in her research, or in imparting a real sense of Renaissance Venice. Plus, there are some jarring anachronisms (tomatoes and potatoes in 1498 Venice, flamenco dancing in Spain at that time, etc.). There was so much potential in the story, characters, and ideas, and Newmark only skimmed the surface.
While the setting and characters were quite enchanting (not to mention the incredible descriptions of food), the novel just didn't go far enough. Newmark introduces the idea of the ability of recipes and cooking to impart philosophical lessons about life, emotions, and the world around us. But the examples she puts into the book are too easy, too straightforward, and thus devoid of any real revelation. She also fails to go far enough in her research, or in imparting a real sense of Renaissance Venice. Plus, there are some jarring anachronisms (tomatoes and potatoes in 1498 Venice, flamenco dancing in Spain at that time, etc.). There was so much potential in the story, characters, and ideas, and Newmark only skimmed the surface.
August 12, 2010
Set in Venice in the 1400's, this book tells the fictional tale of a hidden ancient book, that is said to hold the secret to immeasurable power.
Luciano a mischievous street orphan finds himself taken in by the doge's chief to work as an apprentice in the kitchen of the doge's opulent palace.
Within Venice at this time corruption and intrigue was rife. Within the palace Luciano witnesses sinister rituals that lead him to wonder if the fabled book is close at hand.
This story contains an excellent plot and once started is hard to put down. This is a worthwhile read for those who like a twisting plot based in a historical setting. A really good read.
Luciano a mischievous street orphan finds himself taken in by the doge's chief to work as an apprentice in the kitchen of the doge's opulent palace.
Within Venice at this time corruption and intrigue was rife. Within the palace Luciano witnesses sinister rituals that lead him to wonder if the fabled book is close at hand.
This story contains an excellent plot and once started is hard to put down. This is a worthwhile read for those who like a twisting plot based in a historical setting. A really good read.
April 17, 2019
A truly wonderful heart warming read. The story follows a young boy and a chef who takes him on as his apprentice. As they get to know each other and share secrets and stories, they become closer and will learn to trust one another. Overcoming difficulties along the way.
The story weaves in the wonders and dark side of Venice during dangerous times. With some magic and a great secret that must be kept at all costs.
I loved this book and can’t stop telling my friends and family how great it is.
The story weaves in the wonders and dark side of Venice during dangerous times. With some magic and a great secret that must be kept at all costs.
I loved this book and can’t stop telling my friends and family how great it is.
May 11, 2019
I listened to the audiobook version of this book. I thought the reader, Raul Esparza, did a good job with the characters. In all, I really enjoyed this tale set in the city of Venice in 1498. It is a story that revolves around the rumor of an ancient, mysterious and magical book that holds what mortal humans desire. Love potions, the secret to making gold, immortality... What is supposedly written on this book's pages would bring much money and power. Those that seek it would kill for it. When an orphan named Luciano is taken under the wing of a talented chef, he finds himself caught up in something much bigger than he can ever imagine. Something that is so secretive, that if discovered, it could turn the world upside down. It surely has me thinking of the possibilities. I found the story line intriguing, the characters were enjoyable, and the cooking scenes delicious. One thing, I couldn't tell was if this was a book written for adults or older youths. Interesting without going too deep. I would say to the potential reader/listener, this medieval tale is worth giving it a go.
June 11, 2024
3.5
Un bel libro, me lo sono goduto.
Tra le cose migliori c'è sicuramente l'ambientazione: la Venezia di inizio '500 è dipinta meravigliosamente, in un tripudio di colori, suoni, odori e sapori. L'autrice riesce a dare un'anima a questa città seducente e marcia al tempo stesso, mostrandone i lati più o meno nascosti ed esplorandone ogni recesso (ancora più ammirevole considerando che l'autrice non è italiana ed è stata a Venezia solo in viaggio). Io non ci sono mai stata, ma questo libro mi ha trasportata sui suoi canali e all'ombra dei suoi eleganti palazzi.
Un'altra grande qualità sono le descrizioni dei cibi, dalla scelta degli ingredienti fino all'impiattamento finale. Si potrebbe pensare che sia scontato in un libro ambientato in una cucina, ma questo banchetto letterario ha ampiamente superato le mie aspettative. Si potrebbe quasi dire che sia l'arte culinaria la vera protagonista di questa storia, quella che stuzzica tutti i sensi e lascia con l'acquolina in bocca.
Quello che mi ha un po' delusa è la trama: c'è un mistero, che a un certo punto assume addirittura le tinte di un thriller, ma tolte le ultime 60 pagine non succede poi molto. Il protagonista, Luciano, in teoria dovrebbe avere 14 o 15 anni, ma tutto quello che c'è nella sua testa fa pensare che non possa averne più di 11 o 12, perciò ho continuato a figurarmelo come un bambino anche nel corso dei suoi struggimenti d'amore, e la cosa è stata vagamente disturbante.
In conclusione un libro piacevole, non particolarmente entusiasmante, ma mi ha fatto venire voglia di vedere Venezia e disprezzare i sofficini surgelati che mi sono scaldata per cena.
Un bel libro, me lo sono goduto.
Tra le cose migliori c'è sicuramente l'ambientazione: la Venezia di inizio '500 è dipinta meravigliosamente, in un tripudio di colori, suoni, odori e sapori. L'autrice riesce a dare un'anima a questa città seducente e marcia al tempo stesso, mostrandone i lati più o meno nascosti ed esplorandone ogni recesso (ancora più ammirevole considerando che l'autrice non è italiana ed è stata a Venezia solo in viaggio). Io non ci sono mai stata, ma questo libro mi ha trasportata sui suoi canali e all'ombra dei suoi eleganti palazzi.
Un'altra grande qualità sono le descrizioni dei cibi, dalla scelta degli ingredienti fino all'impiattamento finale. Si potrebbe pensare che sia scontato in un libro ambientato in una cucina, ma questo banchetto letterario ha ampiamente superato le mie aspettative. Si potrebbe quasi dire che sia l'arte culinaria la vera protagonista di questa storia, quella che stuzzica tutti i sensi e lascia con l'acquolina in bocca.
Quello che mi ha un po' delusa è la trama: c'è un mistero, che a un certo punto assume addirittura le tinte di un thriller, ma tolte le ultime 60 pagine non succede poi molto. Il protagonista, Luciano, in teoria dovrebbe avere 14 o 15 anni, ma tutto quello che c'è nella sua testa fa pensare che non possa averne più di 11 o 12, perciò ho continuato a figurarmelo come un bambino anche nel corso dei suoi struggimenti d'amore, e la cosa è stata vagamente disturbante.
In conclusione un libro piacevole, non particolarmente entusiasmante, ma mi ha fatto venire voglia di vedere Venezia e disprezzare i sofficini surgelati che mi sono scaldata per cena.
March 11, 2022
3,5* Numa escrita simples mas muito envolvente, Elle Newmark leva-nos a sentir sabores e cheiros de uma Veneza Renascentista.
May 16, 2023
Geen onaardig boek - makkelijk en snel te lezen. De verdeling van het boek voelt wel een beetje gek; de eerste helft gaat het verhaal vrij traag en wordt de sfeer uitgebreid beschreven (op een leuke en toegankelijke manier), maar de plot vordert hier niet echt. Halverwege het boek begint het verhaal pas echt, om op 2/3 een absolute wervelwind te worden. Vervolgens gebeurd er eigenlijk te veel in een te korte tijd waardoor de personages eigenlijk niet echt de tijd krijgen om te groeien.
Ik heb meerdere beoordelingen gelezen waar men ontevreden was over het einde en ik deel deze mening niet. Ik vond het einde wel degelijk goed, het maakte zelfs een deel van de hectiek in het laatste stuk van het boek goed.
Al in al best een vermakelijk ‘even tussendoor’ boek.
Ik heb meerdere beoordelingen gelezen waar men ontevreden was over het einde en ik deel deze mening niet. Ik vond het einde wel degelijk goed, het maakte zelfs een deel van de hectiek in het laatste stuk van het boek goed.
Al in al best een vermakelijk ‘even tussendoor’ boek.
February 5, 2009
THE BOOK OF UNHOLY MISCHIEF (Hist-Luciano-Venice/Rome, Italy-1498) – VG+
Newmark, Elle – Standalone
Atria, 2008, US Advanced Reading Copy – ISBN: 1416590544
First Sentence: My name is Luciano—just Luciano.
In late 1400’s Italy, Rodrigo Borgia is Pope Alexander VI in Rome and Venice is controlled by The Council of Ten, the Cappe Nere (Black Cape) guards and Riccardi, doge of Venice is syphilitic. A rumor has arisen about a legendary book, for which the doge has offered a reward. What the books contains--it is believed to be one of Alchemy containing secrets to creating gold, the fountain of youth, the Gnostic gospels-- no one is certain.
Luciano was abandoned as an infant, has learned to live on the streets with the help of his friends Domingo, Marco and his cat Bernardo. At 14 or 15, he’s not certain of his age, he is rescued from the streets by Amato Ferrero, chef to the doge. Ferrero has three daughters, but no sons, and wants to impart to Luciano the secrets of food and wisdom of learning, as Ferrero is a Guardian of the book. As the search for the book intensifies, the threat comes not only from the wealthy and powerful.
It is not often where I’m not that fond of the protagonist but love the book. At the same time, keeping in mind the age and background of Luciano, his actions were perfectly in tune with the character. His actions had tragic results but there was redemption in the end.
In many ways Ferrero the chef is the strongest character as he seeks to teach Luciano the lessons of life and impart knowledge through cooking. “Knowledge is the stepping stone to wisdom.” To me, that’s the sign of a good writer. All the characters were true to them selves and contributed greatly to the sense of time and place of the story, which was very well done and not idealized.
Newmark gave us the hardship of the poor and the lushness of the rich. “If Venice was a slut, Rome was a murderer.” The Renaissance being a time of conflict between the Church and intellectual questioning through scientific advancement and the development of the printing press adds tension to the story while imparting historical information to the reader. I always love learning new bits of history.
The descriptions of food were as close to sensory as one can get from a written page. I don’t know how historically accurate were all the food items and their availability, but considering how much they added to the story and that his is fiction, I am willing to forgive the author any license that may have been taken. The scenes of meals changing the moods, and even decisions, were delightful. In some ways, it reminded me of the book “Chocolot.”
The plot was intriguing and did have a bit of “Da Vinci Code” element in that there was something for which everyone was looking and no one was really certain what it contained. A minor complaint was that it switched time periods, a couple times, without indication. This was a wonderful book and I so glad I read it.
Newmark, Elle – Standalone
Atria, 2008, US Advanced Reading Copy – ISBN: 1416590544
First Sentence: My name is Luciano—just Luciano.
In late 1400’s Italy, Rodrigo Borgia is Pope Alexander VI in Rome and Venice is controlled by The Council of Ten, the Cappe Nere (Black Cape) guards and Riccardi, doge of Venice is syphilitic. A rumor has arisen about a legendary book, for which the doge has offered a reward. What the books contains--it is believed to be one of Alchemy containing secrets to creating gold, the fountain of youth, the Gnostic gospels-- no one is certain.
Luciano was abandoned as an infant, has learned to live on the streets with the help of his friends Domingo, Marco and his cat Bernardo. At 14 or 15, he’s not certain of his age, he is rescued from the streets by Amato Ferrero, chef to the doge. Ferrero has three daughters, but no sons, and wants to impart to Luciano the secrets of food and wisdom of learning, as Ferrero is a Guardian of the book. As the search for the book intensifies, the threat comes not only from the wealthy and powerful.
It is not often where I’m not that fond of the protagonist but love the book. At the same time, keeping in mind the age and background of Luciano, his actions were perfectly in tune with the character. His actions had tragic results but there was redemption in the end.
In many ways Ferrero the chef is the strongest character as he seeks to teach Luciano the lessons of life and impart knowledge through cooking. “Knowledge is the stepping stone to wisdom.” To me, that’s the sign of a good writer. All the characters were true to them selves and contributed greatly to the sense of time and place of the story, which was very well done and not idealized.
Newmark gave us the hardship of the poor and the lushness of the rich. “If Venice was a slut, Rome was a murderer.” The Renaissance being a time of conflict between the Church and intellectual questioning through scientific advancement and the development of the printing press adds tension to the story while imparting historical information to the reader. I always love learning new bits of history.
The descriptions of food were as close to sensory as one can get from a written page. I don’t know how historically accurate were all the food items and their availability, but considering how much they added to the story and that his is fiction, I am willing to forgive the author any license that may have been taken. The scenes of meals changing the moods, and even decisions, were delightful. In some ways, it reminded me of the book “Chocolot.”
The plot was intriguing and did have a bit of “Da Vinci Code” element in that there was something for which everyone was looking and no one was really certain what it contained. A minor complaint was that it switched time periods, a couple times, without indication. This was a wonderful book and I so glad I read it.
August 24, 2010
If you are a reader that is looking for a fast-paced, quick to it book, The Book of Unholy Mischief is not for you. If, however, you are looking for a book that simmers slowly, builds with an exotic, leisurely scent of savory spices and peels back, layer after layer, as a succulent orange or oversized onion does, you won't be disappointed by this visual masterpiece.
I loved the colorful depictions of Venice in the late fifteenth century. So vivid was author Elle Newmark's writing and characterizations, even after finishing the book, I can still easily visualize Venice in my mind and the wonderfully written Luciano and Chef Ferraro. I can feel the squalor and grime under my feet of the poorer calles that Luciano strolled and can sense the aromatic herbs from Chef Ferraro's private closet. I can feel Bernardo rubbing my leg with his head, feel his purrs and smell his wet fur, as well as hear the various cries coming from the street merchants, the sailors and the prostitutes.
That alone would make The Book of Unholy Mischief a worthy and fantastic read. After all, aren't the best writers capable of allowing their readers to not only see in their mind's eye the location and the characters but to hear and even smell the story? Ms. Newmark allows the reader to use all his or her senses and to a fabulous extent.
But let's not shortchange the story which, if you allow it time to build, is phenomenal on its own. Historical fiction lovers will delight not only in the day to day accounts of Renaissance Venice but also with the mystery surrounding the infamous book of the title, which not only supposedly holds the key to immortal life, wealth and riches but brings about grief, death, murder and ties to Jesus' crucifixtion and resurrection. Readers who prefer their books with little or no objectionable language and sexual situations will be satisfied with The Book of Unholy Mischief as there are only brief descriptions of slight violence, mostly relative to street living, and one torture scene.
The Book of Unholy Mischief was a fascinating read and has stayed with me, even after turning that last page and closing the book. I felt vested in the characters, so much so that I experienced both joy and sadness throughout the book and into its conclusion. The mystery over the book built slowly and paid off greatly in the end. Portions of the book dealing with cooking and succulent descriptions of food will leave your mouth watering and your stomach rumbling. And on a purely shallow note, the cover is subtle, understated and yet still luscious and inviting.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Book of Unholy Mischief to one and all and I would love to see this flavorful story on a movie or t.v. screen, as I do think the story would certainly be justified on film.
I loved the colorful depictions of Venice in the late fifteenth century. So vivid was author Elle Newmark's writing and characterizations, even after finishing the book, I can still easily visualize Venice in my mind and the wonderfully written Luciano and Chef Ferraro. I can feel the squalor and grime under my feet of the poorer calles that Luciano strolled and can sense the aromatic herbs from Chef Ferraro's private closet. I can feel Bernardo rubbing my leg with his head, feel his purrs and smell his wet fur, as well as hear the various cries coming from the street merchants, the sailors and the prostitutes.
That alone would make The Book of Unholy Mischief a worthy and fantastic read. After all, aren't the best writers capable of allowing their readers to not only see in their mind's eye the location and the characters but to hear and even smell the story? Ms. Newmark allows the reader to use all his or her senses and to a fabulous extent.
But let's not shortchange the story which, if you allow it time to build, is phenomenal on its own. Historical fiction lovers will delight not only in the day to day accounts of Renaissance Venice but also with the mystery surrounding the infamous book of the title, which not only supposedly holds the key to immortal life, wealth and riches but brings about grief, death, murder and ties to Jesus' crucifixtion and resurrection. Readers who prefer their books with little or no objectionable language and sexual situations will be satisfied with The Book of Unholy Mischief as there are only brief descriptions of slight violence, mostly relative to street living, and one torture scene.
The Book of Unholy Mischief was a fascinating read and has stayed with me, even after turning that last page and closing the book. I felt vested in the characters, so much so that I experienced both joy and sadness throughout the book and into its conclusion. The mystery over the book built slowly and paid off greatly in the end. Portions of the book dealing with cooking and succulent descriptions of food will leave your mouth watering and your stomach rumbling. And on a purely shallow note, the cover is subtle, understated and yet still luscious and inviting.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Book of Unholy Mischief to one and all and I would love to see this flavorful story on a movie or t.v. screen, as I do think the story would certainly be justified on film.
July 5, 2012
Well written, solid story, interesting mystery...,
Late 15th century Italy; Luciano was an orphan, raised on the streets of Venice. In what would seem is a stroke of luck, he is plucked from his life of beggary and crime by the chef to the doge. He is given the opportunity to live a normal life, perhaps better than normal, by this chef; this mysterious chef.
Surrounding anyone who lives in Venice at this time is a rumor about a book that contains secrets from spiritual enlightenment to the prowess of alchemy. And everyone, poor, rich, old, young, man, woman, is looking for this book as a huge reward has been offered to anyone who can lead the doge to the tome itself.
From this basis, Luciano tells his story of working in the kitchen of the doge; the political 'dirty-work', the power-plays of the wealthiest men in the city, the unseen power of the serving class who move throughout the city and serve the powerful and know the secrets. As Luciano says it, (and I paraphrase) servants are unseen even in the open.
So, who better to tell the tale than a young man who knows the hard way to live in Venice but now sees the route to the easy way to live. Luciano is a good storyteller and his life is a peek in to the secrets of the serving class in a palace.
What Luciano discovers in his tenure as an apprentice to the doge's chef, is that what is seen is not always what is true, and, more importantly, what is wanted is not always so well hidden. The use of a chef as the protagonist was wise, a new kind of hero with a new concept of what needs to be saved. The Book of Unholy Mischief is a longstanding compendium of the knowledge of the ages.
The story is vividly told, the prose is paced perfectly for the mood of the conversation, and the storyteller reveals just enough information to keep you reading; that you can find out the truth about this amazing book.
I really enjoyed this book. It weaves myth and fact in to a quagmire of what and what not to believe. Religion is questioned, a papacy is purchased, life is possibly never-ending, and love may be as easy as a potion. But, when you exit the book, you leave with a clear understanding of what was being protected, why it was protected and who was protecting it; and that is where I looked at the story and thought 'that would be a good way to protect sacred information'.
Highly recommended. Enjoy!
***** Having read some of the other reviews, I feel I should add that I saw no commanality between this and The DaVinci Code. I thought the DVC was good, but nothing special; this was far better, in my humble opinion and for what its worth (which I concede may not be much).
Late 15th century Italy; Luciano was an orphan, raised on the streets of Venice. In what would seem is a stroke of luck, he is plucked from his life of beggary and crime by the chef to the doge. He is given the opportunity to live a normal life, perhaps better than normal, by this chef; this mysterious chef.
Surrounding anyone who lives in Venice at this time is a rumor about a book that contains secrets from spiritual enlightenment to the prowess of alchemy. And everyone, poor, rich, old, young, man, woman, is looking for this book as a huge reward has been offered to anyone who can lead the doge to the tome itself.
From this basis, Luciano tells his story of working in the kitchen of the doge; the political 'dirty-work', the power-plays of the wealthiest men in the city, the unseen power of the serving class who move throughout the city and serve the powerful and know the secrets. As Luciano says it, (and I paraphrase) servants are unseen even in the open.
So, who better to tell the tale than a young man who knows the hard way to live in Venice but now sees the route to the easy way to live. Luciano is a good storyteller and his life is a peek in to the secrets of the serving class in a palace.
What Luciano discovers in his tenure as an apprentice to the doge's chef, is that what is seen is not always what is true, and, more importantly, what is wanted is not always so well hidden. The use of a chef as the protagonist was wise, a new kind of hero with a new concept of what needs to be saved. The Book of Unholy Mischief is a longstanding compendium of the knowledge of the ages.
The story is vividly told, the prose is paced perfectly for the mood of the conversation, and the storyteller reveals just enough information to keep you reading; that you can find out the truth about this amazing book.
I really enjoyed this book. It weaves myth and fact in to a quagmire of what and what not to believe. Religion is questioned, a papacy is purchased, life is possibly never-ending, and love may be as easy as a potion. But, when you exit the book, you leave with a clear understanding of what was being protected, why it was protected and who was protecting it; and that is where I looked at the story and thought 'that would be a good way to protect sacred information'.
Highly recommended. Enjoy!
***** Having read some of the other reviews, I feel I should add that I saw no commanality between this and The DaVinci Code. I thought the DVC was good, but nothing special; this was far better, in my humble opinion and for what its worth (which I concede may not be much).
February 25, 2017
very cool read.
August 6, 2011
Long drives are made less tiresome by listening to audio tapes. I picked this up in the bargain bin at Borders as I was preparing for my trip and just decided to take a chance on it. What a lucky buy! I enjoyed listening to the story and I want to go back and read it to return to some passages that were particularly delicious.
This is one of the few books that I have "read" that is set during the late 1400's in Venice. Newmark has made the sights, sounds, smells, food and politics of this period come alive.
This is a coming of age story as Luciano, the narrator, tells how he was taken off the streets, a homeless adolescent orphan who must steal to survive, to eventually become a chef and guardian. In the few short months with Chef Ferraro, Luciano learns about love (unrequited), friends, and courage. It is a story about a teacher who is willing to die for what he believes in and is able to inspire his student to be something better. It is a tale of political and religious intrigue. It is a history of a group of men, a secret society, so to speak, who are dedicated to the preservation of knowledge, especially controversial ideas. I am not sure, though, how accurate the historical aspects of the story are since there were a few details that felt a little off.
I find it very interesting that there was so much hype about the DaVinci Code and the religious ideas that it contained and not a word about this one, which brings forth a couple of equally controversial ideas about the Catholic Church and the divinity of Jesus. All new ideas for me to ponder...
Raul Esparza did an admirable job of narrating. He did a fabulous job with Chef Ferraro and with many of the other characters with Italian, German, and French accents and the Castillian Spanish. However, I found that there were a few places where the reading was uneven and where the mispronunciation of a few fairly common words indicated that they were clearly not in the narrator's spoken vocabulary, which is why I have rated this audio book a 4 out of 5.
This is one of the few books that I have "read" that is set during the late 1400's in Venice. Newmark has made the sights, sounds, smells, food and politics of this period come alive.
This is a coming of age story as Luciano, the narrator, tells how he was taken off the streets, a homeless adolescent orphan who must steal to survive, to eventually become a chef and guardian. In the few short months with Chef Ferraro, Luciano learns about love (unrequited), friends, and courage. It is a story about a teacher who is willing to die for what he believes in and is able to inspire his student to be something better. It is a tale of political and religious intrigue. It is a history of a group of men, a secret society, so to speak, who are dedicated to the preservation of knowledge, especially controversial ideas. I am not sure, though, how accurate the historical aspects of the story are since there were a few details that felt a little off.
I find it very interesting that there was so much hype about the DaVinci Code and the religious ideas that it contained and not a word about this one, which brings forth a couple of equally controversial ideas about the Catholic Church and the divinity of Jesus. All new ideas for me to ponder...
Raul Esparza did an admirable job of narrating. He did a fabulous job with Chef Ferraro and with many of the other characters with Italian, German, and French accents and the Castillian Spanish. However, I found that there were a few places where the reading was uneven and where the mispronunciation of a few fairly common words indicated that they were clearly not in the narrator's spoken vocabulary, which is why I have rated this audio book a 4 out of 5.
February 1, 2013
This is a FANTASTIC book! It's one of those rare books that truly offers something for everyone. Whether you like historical fiction, suspense novels, Venice, explorations of the place religion plays in the world (and whether it's deserved), underdog-makes-good stories, or cooking (yes, I said - cooking!), The Book of Unholy Mischief has something for you! Well, I mean - that title alone is fabulous, don't you think??
Seriously, this is an exceptionally well written, multi-layered, and joyful exploration of the Renaissance in Venice. The author skillfully combines the ingredients of political and religious intrigues, a street kid trying to make something better of his life, the beautiful and the ugly parts of Venice, and the sublime joy of a talented Chef creating culinary masterpieces, into a perfectly baked souffle of a story that will not only captivate your mind, but will literally make your mouth water in many parts (there are scenes about cooking which pepper the story: the creation of "cheesecake" for one is nothing short of genius).
The motivations, interactions and choices of the various people and factions competing to find and possess "The Book" of the title are worthy of Michael Crichton, James Patterson, or Dan Brown. The excitement and suspense builds naturally, but relentlessly, until you are chomping at the bit to find out how it will all turn out. Who lives? Who dies?
There is also a wonderful and complex side aspect of the mentoring relationship between street urchin Luciano and his "Maestro" the Doge's Chef who teaches him to cook, as well as to read, to think and to reason. Any parent or child will smile indulgently at the trials and frustrations of both of them in trying to meet in the middle and teach each other something.
The author, Elle Newmark, brings the story to a deeply satisfying close, sort of like a properly reduced sauce leaves your tastebuds dancing and wanting more!
This truly is one of the best books I've read in a while - and I read A LOT of books!!
I highly recommend The Book of Unholy Mischief!
Seriously, this is an exceptionally well written, multi-layered, and joyful exploration of the Renaissance in Venice. The author skillfully combines the ingredients of political and religious intrigues, a street kid trying to make something better of his life, the beautiful and the ugly parts of Venice, and the sublime joy of a talented Chef creating culinary masterpieces, into a perfectly baked souffle of a story that will not only captivate your mind, but will literally make your mouth water in many parts (there are scenes about cooking which pepper the story: the creation of "cheesecake" for one is nothing short of genius).
The motivations, interactions and choices of the various people and factions competing to find and possess "The Book" of the title are worthy of Michael Crichton, James Patterson, or Dan Brown. The excitement and suspense builds naturally, but relentlessly, until you are chomping at the bit to find out how it will all turn out. Who lives? Who dies?
There is also a wonderful and complex side aspect of the mentoring relationship between street urchin Luciano and his "Maestro" the Doge's Chef who teaches him to cook, as well as to read, to think and to reason. Any parent or child will smile indulgently at the trials and frustrations of both of them in trying to meet in the middle and teach each other something.
The author, Elle Newmark, brings the story to a deeply satisfying close, sort of like a properly reduced sauce leaves your tastebuds dancing and wanting more!
This truly is one of the best books I've read in a while - and I read A LOT of books!!
I highly recommend The Book of Unholy Mischief!
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