Book Reviews: A Venetian Affair

A Venetian Affair is a really interesting book.   It's the true story of an 18th century love affair between a member of the Venetian ruling class and the illegitimate daughter of an English baronet.   They couldn't get married because she illegitimate, foreign and a protestant, but they carried on their passionate affair for many years.   The story was published by one of the man's descendants, and is told through the couple's real love letters, with commentary by the author.   It's a fascinating look at 18th century life, and a reminder that people never change.   Sadly this isn't a fairytale and there's no happy ending here.   The couple end up splitting up. What I enjoyed most about the book wasn't the love affair (bits did get a bit tedious, with jealousy and lovers' tiffs), but the historical aspects.   We get a first hand glimpse of 18th century Venice, Paris, London and people like Casanova and Napolean.   It's a really interesting read.