Dog Ear

A story of friars, flirtation, and foul play. Set in medieval Italy, The Falconer’s Knot effortlessly weaves together the story of two youths: Silvano- sent to a Franciscan Friary in Giardinetto on suspicion of murdering the sheep farmer, Tommaso who is married to the much younger Angelica, admired by Silvano and his best friend, Gervasio… and Chiara - an orphan dumped at a convent adjacent to the Friary by her elder brother.

This is a book about characters. Hoffman creates a world at once different but familiar. It moves quickly from one character’s story to the next but I was never confused. I particularly enjoyed the arcs about the painter, Simone, the book illuminator, Frair Fazio, and the scenes discussing the preparation of colors. This information provided a lovely backdrop that set the reader firmly in the time period, while educating. The many murders throughout kept me hooked as well.

I could easily booktalk this title.