Review: Sometimes Surprises Hide Where You Least Expect Them
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 11 19, 2012
When I downloaded this novel to my PC -- I run the Kindle reading app -- I expected what amounted to another middle-aged man's (the author) journey through Europe looking for the "something" he had missed as he grew up.What I received was a startlingly wonderful read by an author -- Narendra Simone -- whose command of English, style, description and characterization is excellent.In truth, the plot of the novel is well-worn: two sisters living by their wits in beautiful Florence as they hustle tourists, using their looks and knowledge of the area to serve as hostesses for the area, however, in Simone's hands this well-worn plot becomes almost magical as the tall British stranger in slightly shabby hiking gear gets them involved in a world of murder and intrigue. This novel is like one of those candies where you find a treat inside, but you never know what to expect. It's tasty, but the treat is what you are looking for. It is Simone's writing that provides the treat: a rich command of the language, and a fluid style that lends his work an air that is almost poetic as just one passage I noted should indicate:When Simone has Kitty strike up a conversation the then-unknown traveler -- who Kitty supposes is an author whom she assumes may supply them (Kitty and her sister with a living for several months) -- describe the difference between Rome and Florence: "I tried Rome first. I thought it has amazing history (but) I found that its people have restless smiles. I didn't think they could inspire stories in me..." There in three sentences you have the essence of the Roman spirit versus Florence. "A Tuscan Dream" is filled with such treasures and descriptions that are at once very spare, yet very rich.If you are looking for a good read with more twists that your average rattlesnake, then this is for you. Simone and his characterization, obvious love of language and his command of the writing art make this one a real winner.