Basilica : Book Review

"Basilica" by William D. Montalbano is a captivating and thrilling novel that transports readers to the enchanting city of Rome. Set in the ancient Basilica of Saint Peter, the story revolves around detective Nic Costa as he unravels a mysterious and gruesome murder. Montalbano skillfully blends elements of crime, history, and art to create a deeply engaging and atmospheric narrative that immerses readers in the heart of Rome.

One of the strengths of "Basilica" lies in its well-developed and complex characters. Nic Costa, the protagonist, is relatable and intriguing, driven by an unwavering determination to unveil the truth behind the murder. Alongside him, a cast of compelling characters, such as his dedicated team of detectives and an intriguing art historian, bring depth and richness to the story.

Montalbano's profound knowledge and passion for Rome and its history shine throughout the novel. His vivid descriptions breathe life into the city, capturing its architecture, art, and culture in exquisite detail. This attention to detail adds an additional layer of depth and authenticity to the story, making Rome itself feel like a prominent character in the narrative.

The plot of "Basilica" is masterfully crafted, with a well-paced and suspenseful storyline filled with unexpected twists and turns. Montalbano keeps readers on their toes, introducing new suspects and motives that keep them guessing until the very end. Additionally, the murder investigation exposes deeper secrets and conspiracies, intertwining the present with the past and providing further complexity to the narrative.

In conclusion, "Basilica" is a captivating and immersive read that will appeal to fans of crime fiction, history, and art. Montalbano's captivating writing style, combined with the atmospheric setting and intriguing characters, make this novel an absolute must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling and thought-provoking experience in the beautiful city of Rome.

What are readers saying?

The novel "Basilica" by William D. Montalbano has received a range of reviews from readers. Set in Cuba during Fidel Castro's reign, the story delves into themes of political intrigue, romance, and personal struggles. While some reviewers commended the book for its captivating storytelling and vivid depictions of the Cuban landscape, others criticized its pacing and character development.

Many readers praised Montalbano for his immersive writing style that effectively transported them to the streets of Havana. They appreciated his meticulous research into Cuba's history and culture, particularly noting the powerful and atmospheric descriptions of the crumbling basilica. These readers found Montalbano's ability to capture the essence of Cuba and its political climate to be a standout aspect of the book.

However, there were readers who found the pacing of the book uneven, at times hindering their overall reading experience. They felt that certain parts of the story dragged on, lacking the necessary momentum. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned that the political elements of the plot did not deliver the dynamic tension and suspense they had anticipated.

Opinions varied when it came to character development. Some readers found the main characters to be well-crafted with complex motivations and emotional depth. They appreciated the intricate layers of complexity that Montalbano brought to their relationships. On the other hand, a few reviewers struggled to connect with the characters on a deeper level, finding them lacking in depth.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found "Basilica" to be an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. They lauded Montalbano's attention to detail and his ability to shed light on the political and social climate of pre-revolution Cuba. The novel was praised for its unique perspective, providing readers with a glimpse into a tumultuous era in history.

BasilicaBook HistoricalFiction MedievalMystery