Graceless Heart is a whimsical fantasy, located in Florence, with cameos by actual historical figures but entwined with the boundless imagination of Ysabel Ibanez. This book was a retelling of beauty and the beast, replete with curses, conjectures and a ruthless pope who stifles magic and magical users. Thrust into this medieval setting, is Ravenna, who can manipulate nightfire. Caught between the powerful Luni famiglia and the despot Pope, she must use her wits, magic and , mostly, herself to bring about her happy ending.
Cons: The book fell short of perfect as the romance between the protagonists felt forced and I missed the explanation of the magic system and classification of magical users - they are available but the details are towards the end, It would have helped if other magical users in hiding had been introduced as well.
Pros: Loved the FMC - genuine, never give up kind of lady, who knows her way with a mallet! The mystery with the Pope, his lover and his obsession with magical and revulsion were also exquisitely managed. The supporting characters have some chapters which lend depth to the storyline.
All in all, this is a good book, perfect for a stand alone read, especially if you've recently visited Italy. Grab some limoncello, biscotti and get reading!
My exalted thank yous to St Martin's Press and Saturday Books as well as Netgalley for furnishing me with an arc to enjoy!
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