A review by readlit247
The Curse of Pietro Houdini by Derek B. Miller

adventurous emotional informative inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

The Curse of PIetro Houdini is the reason why I read historical fiction.  The world fell away as I read about Pietro Houdini, Massimo, and the characters they encounter as they find refuge at the Montecassino, a Benedictine abbey, which was the most heavily bombed site by the Americans during WWII.  I stopped and researched as I read about the Renaissance artist Tiziano, the bombing and restoration of the abbey, and the various untold stories that Italians endured during WWII. Miller has done his research. Pietro Houdini is a character every reader should meet. I cried during the last 50 pages, not just because of the plot but knowing that this book would soon end.  I will reread this one of these days.  An unputdownable, under-the-radar gem!
Expand filter menu Content Warnings