The Book of Secrets

by Anna Mazzola
The Book of Secrets cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 190
  • Added: 2025-09-04
  • Updated: 2025-09-10
  • Formats: 33
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
goodreads.com · 2025-09-13
disappointing 2.00

The story is historically grounded but lacks tension due to the known identity of the poisoner, resulting in a lengthy, somewhat dull investigation.

The reviewer finds the novel historically interesting but feels the narrative suffers because the poisoner's identity is revealed early, removing the element of mystery and suspense. This makes the investigative plot feel slow and drawn out, diminishing the overall excitement. They suggest the story might have been more effective if it had been more concise or if the author had introduced more mystery to engage readers more deeply.

Quick quotes

    The unfortunate thing about real life is that it tends not to play out as excitingly as fiction.

    Here we know from the beginning who the poisoner is and it’s not hard to guess how it will end.

    There is no mystery and therefore very little tension.

amwbooksreviews.wordpress.com · 2024-10-27
majestic 5.00

The book is described as hauntingly majestic and captivating, with shining storytelling and writing quality that holds the reader spellbound.

This review highlights the novel's immersive and rich narrative that grips the reader from start to finish. The reviewer praises the quality of the writing and the storytelling, emphasizing the vivid and intriguing atmosphere that the author creates throughout the book. The story's blend of historical setting and suspenseful investigation is seen as masterfully executed, making it a standout read in historical fiction.

Quick quotes

    This was a read which was hauntingly majestic, had me spellbound and captivated from first to last.

    The quality of the writing and the storytelling shines throughout.

    A hauntingly vivid, rich and intriguing read.

What Cathy Read Next... · 2024-03-30
intriguing 3.75

The book offers an engaging narrative through three viewpoints, skillfully blending historical detail with a gripping mystery. It is praised for its vivid atmosphere and complex characters, though some find the pacing uneven.

The reviewer appreciates how the story unfolds from the perspectives of three different characters, which enriches the historical setting of 17th century Rome and the mysterious events surrounding the plague's aftermath. They highlight the author's ability to create a dark, immersive atmosphere that brings the era to life, making the mystery both believable and compelling. However, there is some critique regarding the pacing, as certain sections feel slower compared to the more intense parts of the narrative. Despite this, the depth of character development and the interplay between superstition and rational inquiry are noted as strong points that keep readers invested throughout the book.

Quick quotes

    The Book of Secrets alternates between three points of view, adding depth to the historical mystery.

    The vivid atmosphere skillfully captures the tension of post-plague Rome.

    Some parts of the story pace slower but the complex characters maintain engagement.

Historia Magazine · 2024-03-21
haunting 4.25

This review praises the novel for its historical authenticity and atmospheric writing, emphasizing the moral ambiguity explored in the story. It notes the book’s effective blending of crime and Gothic elements to create a haunting reading experience.

The reviewer admires Anna Mazzola's meticulous attention to historical detail, which grounds the story firmly in 17th century Rome and adds authenticity to the eerie narrative. They find the Gothic tone enhanced by the exploration of justice and secrecy, which leaves the protagonist—and readers—questioning the nature of punishment and truth. The mix of crime investigation with supernatural undertones creates a compelling tension that sustains interest throughout. The moral complexities faced by the characters are highlighted as a strength, as they reflect broader themes of power, belief, and the consequences of uncovering hidden truths.

Quick quotes

    A powerful, perceptive page turner.

    The novel’s moral ambiguity lingers long after the last page.

    Mazzola’s historical detail enriches the Gothic atmosphere.

Appears in Lists