A very interesting premise, much of it with a factual basis, that was a bit hot and cold for me. The main character is a healing woman before the witch hunts but when women in general weren't allowed to be doctors (1348, Florence, Italy), but is called to investigate stolen relics during the Plague. The healing was interesting, the Plague descriptions horrifying but also fascinating, and I learned more about relics and their history. However, it sometimes felt like this was written by two different people - the characters' personalities weren't consistent, the pacing was off, and I wasn't gripped as I thought I would be. It felt longer than it is. The author is a gemologist and this is her first novel and I'd say it's worth a read because of the unique subject.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, which follows.

The stone magic was beautifully crafted, one of the more intriguing parts of the novel. The other parts I loved were the relationships between Ginevra, the gravedigger was genius, and their interactions at the apothecary.

There are some scenes that are beautifully touching and immersive, but where the author truly shines is her relationships with Ginevra. The author does a wonderful job of bringing me closer to how Ginevra moved at different stages in her life. I believed the responses of a curious tween, a disgruntled teen, and an elder whose hermitage was intruded upon.

I didn’t love some of the head hopping that occurred. For example, we see Ginevra entering a home and thinking to cure it’s inhabitant, and then for a page we go into the sick woman’s head, which was confusing, distracting, and pulled away from the experience. The times later that we jumped in Lucia’s head again were random and too sparse in the context of the entire story. I would have rather stayed with Ginevra or had an alternating POV.

Some reviews on the more negative side were taken out of the time because of the language used. I felt the reading sometimes was more modern, but I also am a reader that has no issue with avoiding medieval writing - to me it would have been obnoxious if the author would have tried it, and I would have DNF’d it. (Not throwing shade, thee doeth thee if that’s your thing).

The story started to slow down about midpoint, but like the rest of the novel, it goes in waves. I’d find myself pretty into scene and then we’d get quiet and introspective, and I’d take a break from reading. Some things I couldn’t quite resolve were why Ginevra was meant to find the missing relics? To cure the city, I get it… but… that piece of the plot didn’t come together until a bit later than I liked.

All that said, I was satisfied with the ending and the story was pleasant. The Author’s note made me really want to cheer for the author. This debut is a good promise for this author’s future stories.

What a beautifully written book full of history and fantasy. This book captures the lore of the magical powers of certain stones. I was entranced from the first page and kept reading late into a few nights. Ginevra is a fascinating character who grows and changes into a strong woman while trying to protect mankind. This is a well researched book and it shows in the writing. Very highly recommended!

I received a copy of the book from Harlequin Trade Publishing and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions in my review are entirely my own.

ThThe Stone Witch is an excellent blend of historical fiction and fantasy. When Ginerva, the witch, is summoned back to Florence, the city in which she was branded a heretic and witch, she returns. Given the task of finding the holy relics stolen from the churches, she is thrust into a mystery. She sees the dead and dying and tries to intervene at the risk of being pronounced a heretic again.
e Stone Witch is an excellent blend of historical fiction and fantasy. When Ginerva, the witch, is summoned back to Florence, the city in which she was branded a heretic and witch, she returns. Given the task of finding the holy relics stolen from the churches, she is thrust into a mystery. She sees the dead and dying and tries to intervene at the risk of being pronounced a heretic again.

A young woman in medieval Florence is cast out when her simple cures are taken as witchcraft. As soon as the Black Plague finds its way to Florence she is welcomed back with open arms. Her cures consist of working with gemstones and are effective but soon she is caught up in something she isn't prepared for - catching a thief who is stealing relics out of the churches. Once again she is cast as a villain when all she wants is to be admitted to the medical guild. Horrific conditions, superstitions and the politics of the church told through the eyes of a colorful cast of characters and one woman's quest to belong in a man's world. Wonderful storytelling that fans of Ariana Franklin's MISTRESS IN THE ART OF DEATH will love. Thanks to the publisher for the advance copy.

This book just didn't pull me in the way I'd hoped. It was ok but not gripping. I guess I just didn't like the MC. Other readers may enjoy it.

This was a very interesting work of historical fiction - set in an era I know little about ( the Middle Ages- Black plague) in my favorite city Florence Italy. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC to read and review.
I loved Ginevra as a heroine. She had a gift for healing and has especially been learning to use stones/ gems. When the reader meets her she has endured many difficulties and was exiled from Florence and her lover. She is called back by the city leaders for help with dealing with the plague outbreak and specifically the theft of religious relics in the city.
The first part of the story was paced slowly with little happening. There are many flashbacks to the earlier parts of her life that brought her to the point of returning to Florence. The pace then escalated to a frenetic thriller.
It intrigued me how the writing style really seemed to fit the times written about and one could almost believe they were there in the story. I loved the description of the landmarks of Florence. I also learned more about the whole concept of religious relics and how the Catholic Church operated in this time period.
This is a book with unforgettable characters, an interesting plot and a very unique premise.
Looking forward to more from this author!

I like the premise of the book, but the execution was lacking. It seemed liked satire at times because the characters were so one dimensional.

4.5 stars

Anna Rasche’s The Stone Witch of Florence is a captivating historical novel that expertly blends magic, mystery, and medieval intrigue. Set against the backdrop of the Black Plague in 1348 Florence, the story follows Ginevra di Gasparo, a healer with a unique gift for harnessing the powers of gemstones. Banished for her abilities and now called back to a city in desperate need, Ginevra faces an unexpected challenge: tracking down a thief targeting sacred relics.

Rasche’s portrayal of Ginevra is both compelling and nuanced. Her struggle with societal rejection and her quest for redemption are portrayed with depth, making her journey through the plague-ridden city all the more engaging. The intrigue surrounding the theft of sacred relics adds a thrilling layer to the narrative, as Ginevra navigates a web of deception and danger.

The rich historical setting is vividly brought to life, and the blend of magical elements with historical detail creates an immersive reading experience. The novel’s pacing and suspense keep the reader hooked, with well-developed characters and a plot full of twists.

While the resolution may feel a bit predictable, The Stone Witch of Florence is a standout in historical fantasy, offering an enchanting and gripping tale.

The Stone Witch of Florence is beautifully written. The characters are complex and fully realized and the imagery is outstanding. I felt like I was in the midst of the plague. I also loved the blending of magical realism and historical fiction. Magical stones and a protagonist who is adept at feeling what is needed. What the plague caused different characters to do felt very real, particularly when Rasche describes the corruption of higher officials in the Church of Rome, but still manages to make an Inquisitor a sympathetic character!

There is also the centuries old condemnation of heretics and witches. The protagonist, Ginevra, was banished at the hands of powerful men who claimed she was a witch despite the fact she was healing the citizens of Florence. Rasche weaves her past and present story together to give us a complete story from child to adult. Fortunately, Ginevra never loses her compassion and works hard to temper it with wisdom.

Called back to Florence to help the Bishop and Inquisitor discover who is stealing relics from the city’s churches, Ginevra befriends Lucia, who has been abandoned by her husband, and the Inquisitor, Michele, who is terrified of contracting the plague. Both Lucia and Michele and later, a couple of other friends play a crucial role in helping Ginevra conquer her past while helping the citizens of Florence. Rasche also gives us a villain who isn’t a true villain, adding to the overall story, and main plot line.

Reviewers Note: The Author’s Note is definitely worth reading! The amount of research Rasche did for this book is truly inspiring and her job as a gemologist and jewelry historian greatly add to the authenticity of the story.

Ginevra is a healer and we follow her in 1300s, Italy.
Plot 3.5
Characterisation 4.5 (oh, the humour)
Prose 4
Mood 4.5
Quite engaging, witty, fun and ironically modern.

The setting of this historical fiction novel is the Middle Ages in Florence and Genoa during the bubonic plague. The protagonist is a woman, Ginevra, who has magical healing talents. The antagonists are men in power, superstitions and the plague.

Ginevra is a plucky, interesting character who is tasked with finding the culprit who has stolen relics that have healing powers from the churches. If she succeeds she is promised that her banishment (because she is accused of being a witch) will be lifted but most importantly she will be allowed to join the society of doctors and grocers.

But of course there are dangerous power seeking men, nobles and church officials who wish to use the present circumstances to enhance their wealth and influence. Mayhem ensues.

The special attraction of this book is the abundance of information about what was thought to be the healing power of stones, the dangers of society toward women, who had no power and no voice, and the rich description of the effects of the plague. (bodies, smells, vomit everywhere).

I appreciated the depth of research that went into this story, the complexity of the characters and the fast pace of the story telling.

This was a great read! I enjoyed the writing style, the characters and the rich history throughout. The magic was believable and you can tell the author did a lot of research to make this book the beauty that it is. Would definitely recommend!

The Stone Witch is set in medieval Florence with actual magic. Ginevra wants to clear her name and return to the city she loved. She tries to uncover the mystery of the missing relics and along the way changes people's lives as well as her own.

I enjoyed the book. The medieval feel was well written and the characters full of life. There's laughter and tears as Ginevra goes through life in the old city. I hope Rasche writes more stories is this old city.

In medieval times, cures were frequently lucky discoveries or superstitions. During the Black Plague, many cities searched for cures. Florence had a multitude of churches dedicated to various saints. These saints were all said to help people with certain needs such as patience, health, childlessness, and other needs. Each church is supposed to have a relic for its particular saint within the church. Fabric from a tunic, hair, and a finger, are all examples of the types of relics found in the churches. Each church has a special location for its relic and is very proud of it. During the frightening Plague, people flocked to the churches hoping their prayers would keep them healthy.

When worship failed to produce the desired result, some people would turn to persons known by word of mouth to have special abilities. These persons would offer alternative healing. Ginevra di Gasparo is learning about cures from the local healer. During training, Ginevra is discovered to be able to use gemstones to evoke healing. Her mentor warns her to keep her powers hidden, but Ginevra believes that her abilities are God-given and should be used for the good of all. The Bishop of Florence disagrees and banishes her from Florence. An envoy arrives to see Ginevra. The Bishop offers her welcome back to Florence if she will return to help with the plague. With her wish to return home granted, Ginevra goes to Florence. What she sees upon return is shocking. The Bishop renegotiates with Ginevra, tasking her with solving the theft of relics to remain in Florence.

Will Ginevra be able to untangle this mystery? She is alone and has been away from Florence for many years. In a city where the plague is rampant, would you want to be investigating anything? There is a reason that the Bishop doesn't investigate this himself. Ginevra is viewed as expendable. Anna Rasche's book illuminates the ignorance of medieval times, lack of proper hygiene, and disrespect of women. Set during the Black Plague, this story almost sounds horrific. Through deft writing, Anna Rasche develops a story that is full of interest. Each character adds an important element and combined with Ginevra's desire to return to the city she loves we have a solid foundation for this historical fantasy. This book moves slowly while introducing everyone but soon the action begins and it becomes hard to stop reading. Historical fiction, mystery, and fantasy lovers alike will enjoy this book.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin, and Anna Rasche for the advanced copy.

An excellent read!
I’m generally not a fan of historical fiction, but this book is the perfect example of the type of historical fiction I really can get into. Taking the background and history of the black plague and embedding a strong character and story into it is not an easy task. Doing it in such a way that the reader is engaged and invested in the story is even harder. The author has done a wonderful job in this instance, and I will definitely look for more from her in the future.

Historical fiction with a bit of magic and mystery thrown in! Set during the Black Plague, an exiled witch, Ginevra, is called back to Florence to determine who is stealing the relics of the many churches there. As death envelops the city, Ginevra pieces together the mystery and tries to help those she can with her magic stones and witchcraft. She finds help in unlikely places and is hindered by unexpected villains. I found it to be an engaging and VERY well researched read. Highly recommend!

## The Stone Witch of Florence: A Gem of a Story

Anna Rasche's The Stone Witch of Florence, is a wonderful blend of historical fiction and fantasy that transports readers to 14th century Florence. The novel introduces us to Ginevra, a woman with a unique gift: the ability to harness the power of gem stones to heal. Ginevra's talent sets her apart, but also marks her as an outsider.
The backdrop of the Black Plague adds a layer of historical authenticity and heightens the stakes for Ginevra and her community. The author skillfully weaves together the historical context with elements of magic, creating a believable world where superstition and faith intertwine with scientific inquiry.
While the novel explores themes of gender inequality, prejudice, and the power of belief, it also delivers a thrilling mystery. The search for the stolen relics keeps the reader engaged and guessing until the end.
Overall, The Stone Witch of Florence is a gem of a story that combines historical accuracy, interesting characters, and a touch of magic to create a truly engrossing reading experience. Fans of historical fiction and fantasy alike will be captivated by this tale of a woman who defies expectations and harnesses the power of nature to heal and protect.
Written by me with the help of Gemini AI

3-3.5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed reading this book but sadly I wasn’t super-wowed by it.

I liked how well the author balanced the historical fiction, mystery, and fantasy aspects of this book. That can be hard to do, and I think she did it well.

However, while I praise her for that, I think that’s exactly what preventing the story from wow-ing me. I wish she had leaned more heavily into one of those genres over the others as the balancing act didn’t seem to allow me to feel super involved in the story as I might have been if the mystery were deeper and more complex, the magic stones utilized even more, etc.

I also think trying to balance the genres prevented me from feeling like I knew the characters. For example, apparently Ginevra was the love of Ludovico’s life, but because we don’t get really long or deep scenes between them, the vibe I actually got was that he, the rich boy, was using her, essentially a servant, as a fling.

I did really enjoy Lucia and Becchino—I wish we had gotten more of them. (Becchino pretty much made the finale scene with his taunts and jokes towards the bishop lol.)

So while I enjoyed the story, I most likely won’t be buying the book when it comes out. However, if the author decides to write a series where Ginevra and Fra Michele solve mysteries together, sign me up!

In 1348 the Black Plague is decimating Italy. After eight years of banishment as a witch, Ginevra di Gasparo is summoned back to Florence because she can heal the sick with her ability to use the hidden powers of gemstones. However, when she arrives in Florence, she must use her jewels for another purpose.

The first pages of this book were charming. Ginevra's predicament drew me in. As I read farther, the story began to drag, and I lost interest in the plot. To me, the dialogue was uneven, mixing time-appropriate wordage with present-day phrases. I kept reading because I loved the history and Anna Rasche's knowledge of gemstones.

Thank you, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Net Galley for the advanced copy of this book. The comments expressed are my own.