The Venice Sketchbook by Rhys Bowen is praised for its engaging dual timeline and vivid portrayal of Venice, drawing readers into its atmospheric setting. Reviewers commend the blend of historical romance and mystery, though some feel the plot is predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it offers a charming escape with emotional depth.

Readers who enjoy The Venice Sketchbook by Rhys Bowen are typically enchanted by historical romance and dual-timeline narratives. Fans of Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale or Kate Morton's The Forgotten Garden will likely appreciate the intertwining stories of love, art, and history set in captivating Venetian locales.

The Venice Sketchbook by Rhys Bowen intertwines the wartime romance of Juliet Browning in WWII Venice with her great-niece Caroline Grant’s quest in 2001 to uncover Juliet’s secrets through her old sketches and keys, leading Caroline to new love and personal growth. Sensitive topics include wartime violence, family separation, and loss.

Mysterious / Romantic / Adventurous / Nostalgic / Emotional

- Rhys Bowen, an acclaimed author known for her historical fiction and mystery writing, immerses readers in the picturesque yet mysterious setting of Venice in The Venice Sketchbook.
- The Venice Sketchbook combines a dual timeline narrative, allowing readers to explore both pre- and post-World War II Venice through the entwined lives of its characters.
- The novel captures Venice's iconic landmarks and culture while weaving a rich tapestry of art and history, showcasing Bowen's meticulous research and attention to detail.

**Juliet “Lettie” Browning**  
An English woman striving to be an artist who experiences a life of duty and sacrifice amidst the backdrop of family expectations and war, leaving clues for her grand-niece to discover her hidden past.

**Leonardo Da Rossi**  
The heir to a powerful Venetian family who is conflicted by his sense of duty and personal desires, and becomes a spy for the Allies during World War II while having a profound connection with Juliet.

**Caroline Grant**  
The grand-niece of Juliet who embarks on a journey to Italy spurred by a mysterious box left by her aunt, leading her to uncover family secrets and her own new beginnings.

**Luca Da Rossi**  
The grandson of Leonardo Da Rossi who assists Caroline in unveiling her family's mysterious past and becomes an integral part of her life during her Italian adventure.

**Contessa Fiorito**  
A Polish émigré married to an Italian count and a respected patron of the arts, who becomes a crucial support for Juliet during the war while harboring Jewish refugees.

**Francesca**  
An unwavering aide to Juliet during her challenging times in Venice, assisting with her household and supporting her through significant life events.

**Hanni**  
A young Jewish girl taken in by Contessa Fiorito and adored by Juliet, whose presence brings profound love into Juliet’s life.

**Angelo**  
Juliet's son born during the war, who deepens her capacity for love and vastly influences her actions and decisions.

Rhys Bowen

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Prologue-Chapter 9

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Chapters 10-18

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Chapters 19-25

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Chapters 26-36

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Chapters 37-47

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