by David Gilman
*Advanced Reader Copy*
- Historical-Fiction
- Realistic
- Action-Packed
As a fan of historical fiction, the blurb for The Knife Maker of Venice immediately caught my attention. I had not read anything by David Gilman before, but the premise intrigued me enough to give it a try. I’m pleased to say that the story delivers exactly what the synopsis promises.
The novel begins at a fairly slow pace, focusing on introducing the characters and establishing the setting of early seventeenth-century Europe. During a time when slavery was widespread, the story follows a young English boy who is captured and sold into slavery in Venice. While the opening chapters are heavily focused on world-building, the plot gathers momentum in the second half as the action and intrigue begin to unfold.
The central characters, Richard and Elizabeth, are particularly believable. Their sibling bond feels genuine, and it is easy to become invested in their journey. Both characters make difficult and sometimes drastic decisions in order to protect one another, highlighting the strength of their relationship and making them easy to root for.
Although the pacing is somewhat slow at the beginning, requiring a little patience, the payoff comes in the latter part of the book. The final sections are fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with tension, providing an exciting conclusion to the story.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its sense of realism. The events, setting, and social conditions felt authentic and believable, creating an immersive portrayal of seventeenth-century Europe. It is clear that the novel is well researched, with historical detail woven naturally throughout, adding depth and authenticity to the reading experience.
This book is expected to be published on 13th August, pre order now:
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy. I’m grateful for the opportunity to read and review this book, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
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