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The Visitant

9/23/2015

5 Comments

 
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About the Book: 
  • Paperback: 339 pages
  • Publisher: Lake Union Publishing (September 22, 2015)
The shadows of Venice have long inspired writers—from Henry James and Thomas Mann to Daphne DuMaurier and Ian McEwan. Now, its Megan Chance’s turn, as the acclaimed novelist takes readers through the alleys and canals of this ageless and mysterious city in her compelling new book,The Visitant: A Venetian Ghost Story (Lake Union Publishing; September 22, 2015). Part haunted tale, part love story, part mystery, this riveting historical novel explores the truth behind a terrifying reality, as a young American woman, immersed in a strange foreign culture, encounters a world beyond her wildest imaginings. Buried secrets of a tragic past converge, threatening to destroy not just her hopes of redemption, but her very life.

Set in 1884, The Visitant paints an unforgettable portrait of a decaying city and the secrets that lurk in its dark, crumbling corners. Elena Spira has arrived there to take up the duties of nurse to a young epileptic man who has descended to the depths both physically and psychologically. Samuel Farber wants none of Elena’s help as he wallows in a laudanum-triggered haze of hallucinations. Samuel speaks of visits from a spirit, seemingly wild claims that Elena first rejects as drug-fueled. But, the truth is far more sinister. When Samuel’s best friend and host, Nero Basilio, arrives, Elena finds herself drawn to this charming man as he shows her the hidden delights of Venice. But there are dark forces at play—forces that Elena cannot begin to comprehend. Casa Basilio possesses a tragic history, and a ghost whose presence may be driving Samuel to madness.

The Visitant finds Megan Chance working at the peak of her storytelling powers.


Purchase Links
Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble

Review: 
Elena Spira is sent to a decaying palazzo in Venice to take care of an ailing but rich epilepsy patient, Samuel Faber.  This banishment is Elena’s punishment and possible redemption after Elena makes a mistake with a patient at her father’s asylum.  If she is able to rehabilitate Samuel in time for his wedding, Elena’s favor will be restored and her father will receive his own asylum from Samuel’s father.  When Elena arrives, she is not exactly welcomed by the staff, Madame Basilio or her patient.  Elena tries her best with Samuel, but it seems as if another force has a hold on him besides epilepsy.  As Elena learns more about the fate of the house from Nero Basilio, she begins to believe that a ghost might be responsible for Samuel’s torment.

I absolutely love Megan Chance’s blend of historical fiction, the supernatural and mystery.  From the very beginning when Elena sets foot into the gloomy Ca’ Basilio the scene is set to be ominous and treacherous, but in the otherwise beautiful city of Venice.  The multiple mysteries layered together dragged me in farther, what is Elena running from?  Is there really a spirit in Ca’Basilio? What are Samuel and Nero and Madame Basilio hiding from?  Each of the characters are masterfully drawn, each with their own tragedy that just made me like them even more.  The supernatural aspect was artfully woven in, with hints here and there and a huge surprise as to what the spirit wanted out of all of the madness that it had created.  When it was all over with, I felt that it was too soon to leave these characters and I really wanted to know more of their journey, but that is truly my only complaint.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

 


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About the Author: 
Megan Chance is a critically acclaimed, award-winning author of historical fiction, including Inamorata, Bone River, and City of Ash. Her novels have been chosen for the Borders Original Voices and Book Sense programs. A former television news photographer and graduate of Western Washington University, Chance lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two daughters.

Connect with MeganWebsite | Facebook | Twitter

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5 Comments
Jennifer
9/24/2015 07:14:28 am

This book sounds fascinating with its history and supernatural-ness. I really enjoyed reading your review. Maybe she'll do a sequel to follow up more with the characters?

Reply
Nancy
9/24/2015 10:21:24 am

Love the atmospheric feel to this one, thanks.

Reply
Anne
9/24/2015 02:08:06 pm

This captivating novel set in Venice which is a very alluring and mysterious locale interests me greatly for the intriguing story and the characters. Thanks for this great feature and wonderful giveaway.

Reply
Heather J @ TLC Book Tours link
9/27/2015 12:07:45 am

I'm intrigued by the blend of history and paranormal - this is right up my alley!

Thanks for being a part of the tour!

Reply
Cindy Jameson
9/30/2015 01:03:56 am

I have had my eye on this book for awhile now. I have some very positive reviews. I love the mix of the beauty of Venice with its history and the mysteries that every building seems like it could hold. I am looking forward to this one!

Reply



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    Hi there! I'm Stephanie and I obviously love reading.  As, the title suggests, I read at least one hundred pages a day.  I enjoy most book genres; however, my favorites are historical fiction, fantasy, science fiction, thriller, horror and YA.  I also read a lot of non-fiction science and gardening books for my occupation.  I enjoy reviewing books and as always, any book that I receive for free is read in return for my honest review.  

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