In her historical novel based on a true story, Jennifer Wizbowski follows an Italian child in 18th-century Venice who starts a new life behind the walls of a prominent convent, music school, and orphanage.

The year is 1710, and 10-year-old Agata Farusi’s mother, Kamelia, is dead. Her father, Pietro, is drowning in grief. Once regarded as a talented violinist, Pietro has succumbed to his vices. Fortunately, Agata has her Nonna, a respected baker and strong-willed elder who is determined to protect her granddaughter from her abusive son-in-law’s unpredictable moods. When Nonna’s health begins to deteriorate, she sends Agata to the Ospedale della Pietà, where young, parentless girls are meticulously trained in the creative arts and theology.

Still reeling from Kamelia’s death, Agata is lost. She’s not used to the weighted silences in the hallways or sharing a bedroom with many girls. While some of the staff are kind and empathetic, others believe in harsh discipline. As the months and years pass, Agata strives to advance through the training to become a Poinsettia Girl—the chosen few who perform for all of Venice. But will Agata’s dream collapse when challenged by setbacks, self-doubt, and the possibility of marriage?

Through alternating character viewpoints and third-person narration, Wizbowski’s novel thoughtfully explores the challenges of claiming autonomy as a woman in a traditional, male-dominated culture. Agata’s steady transformation from a shy foundling to a 22-year-old musician illustrates how trauma can irrevocably shape personal identity. The writing shines when depicting Agata’s growing artistry and how music serves as source of inner strength.

However, some secondary characters, like famed composer Vivaldi, could benefit from a stronger characterization. For example, while Vivaldi plays a part in Agata’s journey, he’s never given concrete character details or much personality.

Overall, this is a quietly moving journey of rebuilding purpose after surviving personal tragedy. Readers who appreciate women’s fiction will feel as protective of Agata as the fictional nuns charged with shepherding her into womanhood.

Also available in hardcover and ebook.