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A review by mintomillk
The Sleeping Nymph by Ilaria Tuti
4.0
I am amazed Ilaria Tuti isn't more of a well known household name for her mystery books. There is so much clear care and detail put into the plot of the novel, the relationship between characters, and the overall mystery that weaves in and out of every aspect of the interactions and revelations experienced by Battaglia and her crew. Firstly, this book is more character-driven than her debut novel, with quite a lot more thought put into Massimo's character and relationships, and more developed of Battaglia and her illness. I found her relationship with Albert fascinating, as well as the revelation that he wasn't actually who we're led to think considering the context of her past. I was absolutely wrecked over the extent to which Battaglia went to for Massimo so that he could put his past behind him, and the found family aspect of this series makes me want to keep reading and never stop. I could swallow Tuti's books whole and still crave more.
Another fascinating aspect of this novel is the plot itself -- it goes in so many different directions, with new revelations and evidence, that it keeps you guessing until the very last minute. There wasn't a moment while reading that I felt like I was slugging through the book, despite how lengthy it ultimately felt, as Tuti is a master of atmosphere and historical context. The plot is intricate, tragic, and perfect for the noir thriller vibe that inspires it.
Ultimately, though, I ended up rating this book four out of five due to the ending. I felt the overall reveal of who was the killer and her reasonings behind it a bit weak, and the ultimate origin of the mystery somewhat random and fearmongering in the superstitious. The fate of the character and the reason why the painting was made was built up as a mystery of love and angst, but ended up becoming almost incidental to the grander conspiracy. Despite this, The Sleeping Nymph is still a fantastic and enjoyable read.
Another fascinating aspect of this novel is the plot itself -- it goes in so many different directions, with new revelations and evidence, that it keeps you guessing until the very last minute. There wasn't a moment while reading that I felt like I was slugging through the book, despite how lengthy it ultimately felt, as Tuti is a master of atmosphere and historical context. The plot is intricate, tragic, and perfect for the noir thriller vibe that inspires it.
Ultimately, though, I ended up rating this book four out of five due to the ending. I felt the overall reveal of who was the killer and her reasonings behind it a bit weak, and the ultimate origin of the mystery somewhat random and fearmongering in the superstitious. The fate of the character and the reason why the painting was made was built up as a mystery of love and angst, but ended up becoming almost incidental to the grander conspiracy. Despite this, The Sleeping Nymph is still a fantastic and enjoyable read.