Review by Theresa Doyle-Nelson .
I enjoy an historical fiction book now and then … it can really be a very comfortable and fun way to learn some history. I also like an occasional historical romance novel, if it is a gentle and tender sort of romance. And, of course, I enjoy reading about Catholic things. However, finding these three genres blended into one book can be quite a challenge! But, I recently did find one and enjoyed it very much!
The Cameo is a charming novel set in both the 1800s and post-World War II Europe. It involves an intriguing mystery (about a uniquley designed cameo), a few sweet romances, thoughtful and accurate portrayals of the periods, non-aggressive teachings of the Catholic Church, and more.
From The Cameo:
In spite of trying not to be noticed, Dorothea did notice us laughing. I suppose she always has one eye on me since she is my chaperone.
"What are you finding so funny, Claire?"
"It's my pronunciation; it's quite hopeless," I lied.
We tried to go on, but soon we would start laughing again at some other ridiculous thought.
"Italians also started banks, too. Bank is banca," Mr. Bartoli tried to get us back to a serious lesson.
"No, no, please, don't tell me anything else that will start me laughing again, " I begged.
A mysterious cameo is found at Markham House. Captain Marsh's search for the owner leads him to the story of a young Victorian English woman visiting Italy in the 19th century. Her tale of romance in Tuscany and her search for truth changes his own life, too.
Claire tries to discover the truth about the Catholic Church. Is it really the 'whore of Babylon' as her friends claim?
Reader Reviews:
Lorraine Shelstad writes a great story of both love and faith - inspiring, but not overdone. I hope we see more by her. Harry B. (Bangkok,Thailand)
I read “The Cameo” and thoroughly enjoyed it! What a delightful story and so beautifully told. I certainly hope you are working on something else. I will be most anxious to read more of your work. Sammy (BC, Canada)
I was enthralled with "The Cameo". Your 1898 description of Italy makes you want to trace the steps. The characters then and now were so real; I could easily picture them. Gloria (Calgary, Canada)
"The Cameo" is a well written shorter novel that surprised me - the story was a bit
of a mystery-type story of sorts but was also a beautiful love story. I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptive history within the book and the details about religion and specifically Catholicism as they are explored by one of the main characters ... I would wholeheartedly recommend this read - definitely a gem of a find! Michele (Calgary, Canada)
Veritas Bookstore, 1546 Barrington Street, Halifax, NS
In Vancouver area 'The Cameo' is available from:
Save-On-Foods Book Depts at Pinetree Mall, Coquitlam and West Maple Ridge Stores.
St. Luke's parish office, 20285 Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge, BC
Holy Family Bookstore, 20787 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC 778-278-4278
Chiesa Santa Agnese with the lovely mosaic
of St. Agnes above the entrance.
Montepulciano, Tuscany
The Chianti Valley that Claire saw from her guesthouse window.
Assisi
