Eight Strings

 

Eight Strings / Margaret DeRosia
TO: Simon & Schuster, c2023.
321 p.

In late 19th century Venice, Francesca is fleeing an arranged marriage, with the help of her grandfather. She dresses up like a man, becoming Franco, and runs to the Minerva marionette puppet theatre where she tries out for a job. Her grandfather was a puppeteer and has trained her, but the profession is only open to men. As Franco, he gets the most entry level job to prove himself, and as time goes on he grows in his puppeteering skills and in his life as a man. Franco is who Francesca was always meant to be; fortunately, he's also the way to hide from his family, and develop the life of his dreams. 

Franco works hard and earns the trust of the Minerva's owner, as well as the grudging respect of his coworkers. Those relationships cement his devotion to the theatre, until one day a friend from the distant past appears. Annella had grown up on the same street, and is now a companion to a wealthy woman who seems to have some influence at the Minerva. Annella recognizes Franco but keeps silent. They are thrown together through circumstance, and desire begins to bloom. 

But Franco has to figure out not only how to become a master puppeteer, but how to effectively hide from his father and brother, even while tracing the tangled threads of theatre politics and financing. As things begin to alter and shift at the Minerva, Franco and Annella have to find out who's pulling the strings, and where their own future lies. 

This was a fascinating historical read, evoking a vibrant, earthy Venice. From criminal rings and corporate spying, to art and puppetry, to the power of clothing and finding out who you really are, this story has it all. With a fantastic setting, unusual and gripping storyline, and some complex and intriguing characters, this was a thoroughly gripping read. Written by an LGBTQ+ author, it also has a compelling character arc for Francesca/Franco. The shift to being Franco is skillfully done, with the ring of truth and understanding of the nuances of this change. It was convincing and this is a character you are cheering for all along, wanting him to overcome all the hurdles and obstacles in the way of grand success. I really enjoyed the fresh historical setting and context -- and I do love a good story about puppets!