The Girl in the Glass

July 30, 2012
Travelogue, history lesson, mystery, romance—the newest from veteran author Meissner (The Shape of Mercy) combines a bit of all to create a delightful tale that will take readers into the heart of Florence, Italy. Travel-book editor Meg Pomeroy thinks of Florence as home, though she’s never visited despite her dad’s vow to take her. When the promised trip materializes, Meg thinks her dreams have come true despite misgivings about her father’s motives, her mother’s dating a younger man, and her own ambivalence about dating again after she breaks off her engagement. The trip is a chance to connect with Lorenzo DiSantis, a writer she’s met only via Skype and e-mail, and Sofia Borelli, a memoir writer who says she’s a Medici descendant and whose book enchants Meg from the first word. Sofia believes that Nora Orsini, a Medici granddaughter, speaks to her through the art of Florence. Meissner blends Nora’s, Sofia’s, and Meg’s stories with a deft hand, creating a layered work of art sure to enchant readers. Agent: Chip MacGregor, MacGregor Literary.

Starred review from September 15, 2012

Meg Pomeroy's grandmother promised that one day she would take her to Florence, Italy. But her death leaves the trip on the shoulders of Meg's father, whose divorce from her mother has led to a strained relationship with Meg. Still, when Meg is 30, her father tells her to go ahead and book the trip. When Meg arrives in Florence, her father isn't there. Instead, he has left instructions for would-be memoir writer Sofia Borelli to show Meg the sites. For her part, Sofia claims to be the last surviving member of the Medici family. She also claims that Nora Orsini, a Medici princess, communicates with her through paintings. VERDICT Meissner (A Sound Among the Trees) effectively weaves the stories of the three women together for a compelling tale that is both descriptive and emotional. Recommend it to fans of Melanie Dobson.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.