A review by kristineisreading
The Venetian Mask: A Novel by Rosalind Laker

3.5

This was a very slow starter for me, although it did pick up as I gradually became invested in the characters. I’m a big fan of Marietta’s. She is brave, loyal, intelligent, and determined. Her growth from a young orphan, to a prima donna, to a senator’s wife, to a mask maker is marked by plenty of adversity and she handles it all admirably. Elena is another strong character, somehow never growing bitter despite her unfortunate situation. A weaker woman might break from what she is subjected to, but Elena bears her burden with dignity and grace and bravery. The enduring friendship between the two women is a core feature of the story. They support and lift each other up unwaveringly, and it’s their deep loyalty to each other that leads to the story’s climax and resolution. Beyond that, I really enjoyed the insight into late 1700s Venice. Venice is almost a character itself, full of debauchery and secrets and cruelty and romance and opulence. The unique setting combined with the strong characters makes this a memorable story.