This was not a particularly riveting read, nor did the characters of the story immediately sustain my sympathies or interest. However, the book itself, as an object and an entity in its own right, is an absolute joy to behold, the turning of each page a delight and treat for the eyes.

It is gloriously illustrated throughout and succeeds magnificently in evoking the sumptuousness of Venetian court-life. The rich and captivating pages are ingeniously interspersed with envelopes, maps and letters, inviting the reader to enter into this world with more than just the eyes of a casual reader. Your eyes become those of the heroine, who glances upon the self-same Tarot cards you hold in your hand.

It is a love story set in 16th Century Venice, relying heavily upon the classic themes of forbidden love, deception and hidden identity. In an age when women were not entitled to pursue careers or callings, the main protagonist, Filamena is at odds with the warped morality of a society where to be an independent woman is to be at best, a prostitute.

Each chapter recounts a classic love story, from Tristan and Isolde to Isis and Osiris. The fates of these mythical lovers mirror choices and paths Filamena may have to face on her journey towards achieving a perfect love.

Personally I was attracted to the book because it promised a sensual feast for the eyes. It provided more than I would have expected because upon closing the cover at the story’s end, I felt something powerful had occurred within my heart.