This novel is written beautifully. I was transported to the Rome of both Nina and Lottie's times. I am intrigued to know how these two women's stories fit together. The descriptions of both the beautiful city of Rome with its stunning views, food, smells, art and history and then the juxtaposition of the violence and death involved in that history is haunting and truly captivating. This would be a perfect summer read and ideal for those who wish to escape for a while into a novel that can transport them to another world.