Poor grammar and writing prevented me from really getting into and enjoying the story. I love Venice, and I love historical romances, but this just didn't do it for me.

Who doesn't love a passionate romance novel set in Venice? I know I do. Each of the characters have their own personality and passion that they display throughout this fast paced novel. I could not put it down from the moment I picked it up. I have to say, I thought that this would be just another romance novel that I would read once and never think of again after enjoying it. I was wrong. I have read this novel twice now within a two week period. I can definitely see myself reading it more often. Arianna Giorgi deserves all the praise we can bestow for writing such a passion filled novel.

I haven't read such an action-packed Historical Romance in a very long time! I was on the edge of my seat sometimes, the story was gripping as it was frustrating (in a good way). The chemistry to between the main characters was great, the villains added such panache to the storyline. The only reason I did not give this a 5-star rating is the ending felt quite abrupt. I wanted to know a few things and the author didn't give it to me. Otherwise, I definitely recommend this a fun historical romance.

Pirates and Battles and The Plague, Oh My!

What's not to like when you have all of those elements in one book? This was an interesting read with non-stop action and twists around every corner (er, chapter!). 

Isabella is a bit of a headstrong young lady for her time, and she tires of awaiting word from her fiance who has not sent her a letter in quite awhile. En route to traveling from Rome to Venice, she encounters much more than she ever anticipating, including a battle on the seas, an off-the-beaten-path stranding on an isle, the plague, and pirates! And the one who both infuriates and intrigues her, Captain Brando Loredan, is the only one who can save her and help her reach her finance. 

An enjoyable read for the beach or a rainy day with plenty of excitement to keep the reader engaged and guessing what could possibly happen next?!

Loved the premise of this novel: pirates and princesses in 18th century Venice. A great change of scene from Regency England and other settings so popular in romance land. The vivid, fast-paced narrative works well and makes it easy to envision the story playing out in an action movie-like fashion. I started off a little confused as to the who-what-where (Why are we on an island, and what's this building we're apparently in? What are these broadsides apparently attacking us? etc.), but the rollercoaster of events captured me anyway. Found myself shifting between anxiety (pirates!), disbelief (pirates are murdering us and we're refusing to flee because of a lost kitten?) and adoration (men and kittens!). Brandon was an attractive hero from the start and the tension between him and Isabella came out great. Props as well for Casanova's cameo appearance - we wouldn't have wanted to miss him in Venice! Overall, the book could use more editing and attention to historical detail though. No kitten would have fit between an upper-class woman and her 18th-century stays :-)

I'll say that this book has got the most passionate characters I've read in a while. Isabella is the Princess who discovers that her betrothed is in love with another woman and he's not ashamed to show his infatuation in public, but she's got a duty to uphold to her people and her family. Then, of course there's Brando, the rascal, or honorable Soldier depending on who you listen to- and he cannot for the sake of love stand by and watch Leonardo or anyone break Isabella's heart.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced digital copy. I loved the passion with each the main characters fought and lived by and aside from some minor tweaks on grammar and adjustment on scenes to enhance pace, I'd say this was quite a thrill to read.

The Lion of Venice is a fast moving story of a woman who can't make up her mind. Isabella comes to Venice after being rescued from pirates by  Captain Loredan. When she arrives, she finds her betrothed in love with another woman who happens to be the captain's fiancee.  They have not been discreet and all of Venice knows. She doesn't break off the engagement to Leonardo due to disappointing her father. She and Captain Loredan devise a plan to make their fiancees love them.  While working together, they become very attracted to each other. When he touched her, she becomes alive. She breaks with Leonardo but is blackmailed into marrying him. Will Leonardo win or Captain Loredan fight for his love.  Great ending to a great book. I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review and no compensation otherwise.