Yarde Reviews & Book Promotion: Book Review: Trouble in Assisi (A Fabiola Bennett Mystery Book 2) by Heidi Eljarbo

Trouble in Assisi
(A Fabiola Bennett Mystery Book 2)
By Heidi Eljarbo

Publication Date: 28th May 2024

Publisher: Independently Published

Page Length: 278

Genre: Historical Fiction / Thriller

Assisi, 1973.

On art historian Fabiola Bennett’s first day in Assisi, a local gentleman takes her aside to ask for advice about a painting that has wondrously appeared in the basilica’s bell tower.

So much for enjoying relaxing days filled with dining on pasta and gelato.

Soon, Fabiola and her besties, Pippa and Cary, are thrown into a shrouded mystery and caught up in a whirlwind of intrigue, theft, lies, and attempted murder, all of which overshadows the postcard-like charm of the small, historic town.

Rome, 1511.

Life is going well for Teodoro Nicoletti. Since he was a young man in Florence, he has worked and learned alongside the most-favored artist Raphael.

When Pope Julius II commissions Raphael to paint several frescos in the reception rooms of the Vatican Palace, Teodoro follows his master to Rome and discovers firsthand the admiration and rivalry between Raphael and two other reigning artists: Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

But the prickliest thorn in Teodoro’s side is his beloved Elisabetta’s father. The old man is determined to keep his youngest daughter from becoming Teodoro’s wife.

A locked room. No one could get in or get out without a key, and yet a painting had done just that. It was a miracle—a divine intervention.

Fabiola Bennett, an art historian with a passion for the intricacies of cultural history, may not have an extensive grasp of miracles, but her knowledge of art is profound. The painting before her, a mesmerising piece from the Renaissance, showcases exquisite details. It closely resembles the famed “Portrait of a Man in Red Chalk.” Could this be a portrait of Leonardo da Vinci?

But before Fabiola can investigate further, the portrait is stolen.

Who could have slipped past the vigilant guards and the modern alarm system? What method did they use to evade detection? And where had they taken the painting?

Time is running out—but there is more to this story than meets the eye, and Fabiola will not leave Assisi until she finds the painting.

In “Trouble in Assisi (A Fabiola Bennett Mystery Book 2)” by Heidi Eljarbo, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Fabiola Bennett as she embarks on her latest art investigation.

The setting of Assisi in the 1970s comes to life with brilliant detail. As Fabiola steps off the bus at the bustling Piazza Unità d’Italia, she is immediately enveloped by the charm of this medieval hilltop town. The air is thick with the fragrance of herbs, mingling with the vibrant scent of red geraniums blooming in terracotta pots, and the earthy notes of olive trees swaying gently in the breeze. At the same time, the cobbled streets wind gracefully between beautifully preserved ancient churches and stunning medieval architecture. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by the laughter of visitors as they explore the town. A particular gem in this enchanting scene is Carla Baldelli’s trattoria, where the warmth of traditional hospitality and the aroma of delicious homemade dishes invite travellers to linger and savour this culinary experience.

The Basilica of Saint Francis, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, is an awe-inspiring sight that captivates all who visit. The interplay of the Upper Church and the Lower Church showcases an extraordinary blend of artistry and engineering, making it a true masterpiece. The bell tower, with its elegant yet understated design, creates a striking silhouette against the backdrop of this historic skyline, drawing the eye with its charm. Meanwhile, the Sacro Convento friary offers a profound sense of peace and tranquillity. This exquisitely crafted work evokes a sense of place that enthrals the imagination. The reader is invited to immerse themselves in this world with remarkable clarity, as if the prose itself morphs into a vibrant oil painting. It is a tranquil haven waiting to be experienced.

Renaissance Rome unfolds as a breathtaking tapestry of ancient architecture. The city buzzes with a vibrant symphony of sounds—the cheerful banter of bustling streets, the raucous laughter spilling from lively inns, and the distant, rhythmic tolling of church bells. Vivid hues adorn the facades of buildings, immersing visitors in a sensory delight that celebrates both the city’s rich past and its spirited present. In the Vatican Palace, Teodoro Nicoletti skilfully manipulates light and colour, working with the esteemed Master Raffaello, whose visionary frescoes would captivate for generations. This artistic legacy stands in harmony with the monumental achievements of Master Michelangelo, who toiled for countless hours on a precarious scaffold, pouring his soul into the iconic "Last Judgment" in the Sistine Chapel. The reader is invited to take a closer look at the lives of these talented artists, with a particular emphasis on Teodoro, who aspires to attain the esteemed rank of Master. After years of dedicated apprenticeship to the renowned Master Raffaello, Teodoro’s hope reflects his intense commitment to his craft. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into the captivating world of these artists, witnessing the meticulous process by which each painting comes to life. The vibrant colours, dynamic brushstrokes, and careful attention to detail transport the audience into Raffaello’s studio and the Vatican Palace, where the air is filled with the scent of wet lime-based plaster, oil paints, and the sacred sounds of creativity. The sitting is not just a visual spectacle; it is a profound experience that nourishes the senses and uplifts the soul, showcasing the beauty and passion painted into every masterpiece.

Teodoro Nicolett is depicted as a young artist with a keen eye for detail and a genuine kindness in his heart. He approaches the world with a sense of wonder, continually eager to absorb new experiences and knowledge. His fascination with beauty is evident in everything he observes. A particularly telling moment showcases his compassionate nature when he selflessly helps two intoxicated men, demonstrating not only his empathy but also his willingness to lend a hand to those in need, regardless of the circumstances. This act of kindness highlights his character as someone who deeply values human connection and the importance of compassion in everyday life.

After spending years as an apprentice to the esteemed Master Raffaello and working diligently as part of his team on the elaborate paintings of the Stanze di Raffaello in the Vatican Palace, Teodoro has finally created a masterpiece of his own. This painting, a vivid depiction of divine beauty and human emotion, is meant to showcase his artistic prowess. Just as he prepares to present his work to the Guild for evaluation, hoping to gain the recognition he so deeply desires, disaster strikes: the painting is stolen, plunging him into a maelstrom of uncertainty and desperation. Amidst the chaos of the catastrophe, Teodoro finds himself falling deeply in love with the enchanting Elisabetta, whose beauty captivates him at every glance. Through rich character development, Teodoro emerges as a nuanced figure, embodying the values of kindness and integrity that are masterfully portrayed throughout the narrative.

Fabiola Bennett is a highly accomplished art historian known for her extensive knowledge and expertise in the field. With a deep passion for art, she has dedicated her career to studying and interpreting the works of renowned artists from various eras. Fabiola has also earned something of a reputation for finding stolen artwork, and even though she is on holiday, she cannot help but get involved with tracking down the missing painting. Fabiola is a fabulous character who becomes obsessed with this newly discovered portrait, and when it goes missing, nothing else matters. Her determination to find it leads her down various rabbit holes and into some very dangerous situations. Through Fabiola’s eyes, the reader experiences a whirlwind of emotions: the exhilarating rush of her discoveries, the crushing disappointment of dead ends, and the fierce resolve that pushes her to continue searching against all odds. As the plot thickens, the narrative immerses the reader in the thrill of the chase, creating an almost palpable tension. With each twist and turn, the reader is drawn deeper into the mystery, feeling as though they are right there alongside Fabiola, sharing in her triumphs and setbacks as she races against time to recover the stolen artwork.

The novel is alive with a diverse cast of secondary characters, each adding depth to the unfolding narrative. Signor Conti emerges as a captivatingly mysterious figure. Carla, on the other hand, radiates warmth and kindness; her inviting nature fosters a vibrant sense of community and connection, offering Fabiola a haven amidst her trials. Pippa, a close confidante of Fabiola, is not only a cherished friend but also a master of charm, effortlessly captivating the attention of men who hang on her every word. Cary, a diligent detective inspector at New Scotland Yard, stands as another steadfast ally. While his caring nature is unwavering, he often worries about Fabiola’s reckless tendencies, finding himself in a constant battle with her to keep her safe. In the backdrop of Renaissance Rome, Master Raffaello is introduced as a delightful and charming figure. He immortalises the genius of Michelangelo and da Vinci in his renowned masterpiece, “The School of Athens.” Each character, with their vivid personalities and intricate relationships, skilfully knits together a mesmerising narrative filled with unexpected twists and emotional depth, drawing readers into a world so compelling that they simply cannot put the book down.

“Trouble in Assisi” (A Fabiola Bennett Mystery Book 2) by Heidi Eljarbo is an exhilarating thriller that takes readers on a whirlwind journey through the enchanting streets of Assisi, Italy. The novel’s gripping plot weaves together suspense, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists that will keep readers utterly captivated from start to finish.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde

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Heidi Eljarbo

Heidi Eljarbo is the bestselling author of historical fiction and mysteries filled with courageous and good characters that are easy to love and others you don't want to go near.

Heidi grew up in a home filled with books and artwork and she never truly imagined she would do anything other than write and paint. She studied art, languages, and history, all of which have come in handy when working as an author, magazine journalist, and painter.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She and her husband have fifteen grandchildren—so far—in addition to a bouncy Wheaten Terrier.

Their favorite retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summertime and ski the vast, white terrain during winter.

Heidi’s favorites are family, God's beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.

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