December 1, 2022
Former Reuters reporter Crisafulli's debut novel offers a bit of everything for listeners: mystery, history, romance, and a touch of mysticism. Crisply narrated by Anna Perrin, the audiobook follows Gabriela Domenici as she struggles to save the Ohnita Harbor Library from financial ruin via the discovery of an extremely valuable medieval cross. Found amid boxes destined for a community rummage sale, the cross appears to be tied to the medieval saint Catherine of Siena. The relic immediately draws the attention of those who hope to profit from its sale and believe in its power to heal. The murders of two locals connected to the cross propel Gabriela's search for its origins as she also manages her complicated home life that includes her elderly mother, her 10-year-old son, and money issues, capped by an aging house in dire need of a roof replacement. In fact, at times, it seems that there is a bit too much going on, and that the tale's pacing might have benefitted from judicious editing. Nevertheless, Perrin's rich voice spins the tale with smooth clarity down to its satisfying denouement. VERDICT An engaging series starter, covering all the bases for readers of cozies, romance, Christian fiction, and even church history.--Gail Eubanks
Copyright 2022 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.