Scherzo by definition, frequently refers to a fast-moving humorous composition which may or may not be part of a larger work.
Scherzo the novel fits this definition well and is written as a historical murder-mystery set in eighteenth-century Venice. Our narrator throughout the novel is a now aged Ludovico il Tedesco, a castrato singer. Ludovico's narrative plus a collection of letters and excerpts from the broad range of characters makes the story move along and constantly kept me wondering what in the world was going to happen next.
Ludovico's character was very different and, due to his unique situation, was often put into hilarious situations. The plot of the murder was sometimes secondary to figuring out what each of the other characters was up to. Also, whenever it seemed like one part of the mystery was figured out, more pressing questions appeared.
This mystery kept me engaged and surprised to the very end. The cast of characters was wonderful, no wonder this is nominated for the Booker Prize. Recommended for lovers of historical fiction, murder-mysteries and even comedies.
Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers program for giving me the chance to read this book.
Scherzo the novel fits this definition well and is written as a historical murder-mystery set in eighteenth-century Venice. Our narrator throughout the novel is a now aged Ludovico il Tedesco, a castrato singer. Ludovico's narrative plus a collection of letters and excerpts from the broad range of characters makes the story move along and constantly kept me wondering what in the world was going to happen next.
Ludovico's character was very different and, due to his unique situation, was often put into hilarious situations. The plot of the murder was sometimes secondary to figuring out what each of the other characters was up to. Also, whenever it seemed like one part of the mystery was figured out, more pressing questions appeared.
This mystery kept me engaged and surprised to the very end. The cast of characters was wonderful, no wonder this is nominated for the Booker Prize. Recommended for lovers of historical fiction, murder-mysteries and even comedies.
Thank you to LibraryThing Early Reviewers program for giving me the chance to read this book.
