The Stargazer

I recently devoured this book on a cross-country plane trip. What a joy to read! The plot reads differently than I expected and is really interesting, so much so that I couldn't stop turning the pages. The characters are strong, especially Biance who is an intelligent, admirable heroine. I don't know much about the Renaissance, but that didn't matter. I found the setting captivating and inspiring. I anxiously await more from Ms Jaffe!

I started this book a little worried after reading some really terrible reviews. But what a brilliant first book! I am wating eargely for more! A writer whose writing will be sort after very soon. Congratulations Ms Jaffe!

Michele Jaffe's Stargazer lives up to all expectations. Provided you can appreciate historical accuracy, an intriguing plot, the nuances of creating a smart, seductive and likeable female heroine, and steamy romance interludes par excellence, then you won't be able to put this book down. Bravo Michela!!

Clearly well researched, historically accurate, and brilliantly written, Jaffe's first book affords the reader not only enough gratuitous sex scenes to make the most seasoned romance novel readers sweat, but a clever and absorbing plot, brilliant verbal jousting, and strong character development. Far from the norm for the genre of romance novels, this is by far the best I have ever read. Jaffe manages to combine mystery, sensuality, intensity, and history, with a feminist heroine who no woman could fail to admire. Steele, Greeley, and the rest, beware - Jaffe is clearly an author to watch for. My only question: how soon can I get my hands on her next novel (and my own Ian!)?

Ms Jaffe's story was a great summer read with enough of a mystery to keep me guessing up to the end. I enjoyed the setting (16th century Venice) and her narrative and descriptions made me feel like I was there. While I enjoyed Bianca and Ian's story, I found the supporting characters providing that extra depth to the story that other books sometimes lack. Now I want to hear the stories of the other Arboretti, Crispin, Tristan, Miles and Sebastian! Are you listening Ms Jaffe?