Book cover of Playing by Heart

Book description

Emilia Salvini dreams of marrying a man who loves music as much as she does. But in 18th-century Milan, being the "second sister" means she'll likely be sent to a convent instead. Emilia's only hope is to prove her musical talents crucial to her father's quest for nobility. First, though,…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Playing by Heart as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I didn’t realize Playing By Heart was a Young Adult book until I finished reading. I was too engrossed in the story about a musical prodigy in 18th century Italy. The romance arc is central but subdued, as the heroine is still a young teenager when this coming-of-age story begins. Her behavior is shaped by family, faith and cultural restrictions. The story placed me in the world of Italian nobility as I followed the heroine and her sisteras they received above-average educations for their time. (Their father has a reason.) Mature adults will enjoy this book. At least I did!…

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At Home in Persimmon Hollow by Gerri Bauer,

Looking for a cozy Christian romance for Catholics? Here it is: At Home in Persimmon Hollow, the novel that launched the Persimmon Hollow series of historical romances.

Follow the story of pious schoolteacher Agnes, who flees to a small fictional town in frontier Florida for safety reasons. She quickly…

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