About the Book ~
When all of Venice is unmasked, one man's identity remains a mystery . . .
1807
When a baby is discovered floating in a basket along the quiet canals of Venice, a guild of artisans takes him in and raises him as a son, skilled in each of their trades. Although the boy, Sebastien Trovato, has wrestled with questions of his origins, it isn't until a woman washes ashore on his lagoon island that answers begin to emerge. In hunting down his story, Sebastien must make a choice that could alter not just his own future, but also that of the beloved floating city.
1904
Daniel Goodman is given a fresh start in life as the century turns. Hoping to redeem a past laden with regrets, he is sent on an assignment from California to Venice to procure and translate a rare book. There, he discovers a city of colliding hope and decay, much like his own life, and a mystery wrapped in the pages of that filigree-covered volume. With the help of Vittoria, a bookshop keeper, Daniel finds himself in a web of shadows, secrets, and discoveries carefully kept within the stones and canals of the ancient city . . . and in the mystery of the man whose story the book does not finish: Sebastien Trovato.
For more information about Amanda Dykes and her books, check out her website here!
My Thoughts ~
If you're looking for a story that has the qualities of water -- life-giving, moving, and beautiful! -- then you must experience the whimsical journey that is All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes!
All the Lost Places was a magical journey! This bookish journey to Venice brought the legendary city to life in a way that highlights the restorative power of story. Also, I need a book boat! I absolutely LOVED the premise of a book within a book! As Daniel translated the mysterious text, I enjoyed how the story took over, showing in such a simple yet profound way how a reader becomes immersed within a book as the story takes on a life of its own. Some of the lyrical descriptions and jumping around was a bit jarring for me, leaving me a bit lost at times; however, there is no question that All the Lost Places was beautifully written! Although this was a story of found hope and life, there was also loss and death in the journey. Some things may be triggering for those who have experienced medical trauma and loss.
The spiritual thread in All the Lost Places was every bit as intwined, deep, and moving as you'd expect from this lyrical journey. Through both circumstances beyond their control and of their own making, Sebastian and Daniel are plagued with the question, "Who am I?" Though as different as could be with reverse Cinderella vibes and a reformed thief, this question is answered through all the wondrous aspects of found family (including a dash of romance!) and the devotion of the only Man who could pay the price.
Three Stars ~ All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes is a work of art! All the Lost Places is a standalone, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy.
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