The Saint of the Rose

By: Lehi Wayman

Narrated by: Simon de Deney

Micheletto D' Angelo is one of many Italian merchant-bankers monopolizing on Venice's vast trading empire in the mid 15th century. But when through greed and corruption he ends up in prison, even facing the penalty of death, he encounters a mysterious fellow inmate. From this inmate, he inherits a peculiar poem of a rose, written in the fashion of a parable, which seemingly recounts the inmate's life; which life is surprisingly noble, and not criminal.
The poem has a powerful effect on Micheletto. By and by, he unwittingly and unwillingly, finds himself behaving in both deed and thought, more like a saint than a banker. However, these intruding habits eventually place him in a dangerous predicament, as he befriends a young Jewish boy amid the turmoil of the ruthless Inquisition, and falls madly in love with a Spanish noblewoman who is the prize of more powerful suitors. The unraveling events of this situation will lead him to discover his true identity: was he still the same ruthless, bitter, and self-serving moneylender that had so defined him? Or by some mystical spell, had he fallen away into the cradle of sainthood?

©2022 Lehi Wayman (P)2024 Lehi Wayman

Amazing storyline!

I absolutely LOVED this book. The plot draws you in, the characters are very dynamic and capture your heart, and you learn a valuable lesson about how to treat others throughout the book. Couldn’t recommend this book enough!

Loved it! So captivating and thoughtful

What an incredible book with historical accuracy and a captivating story line! Loved the plot atmosphere and character development, which was emphasized by a great narrator on audible. I appreciated how intricately the time period was researched and executed— I felt transported to Venice! Understanding the impact literature can have on a person, it was significant that discovering the poem was such a pivotal moment for the MC. (The social and spiritual changes in Micheletto felt a little reminiscent of Jean Val Jean and the internal transformations that can take place from one significant experience). The Saint of the Rose blends suspense, romance, and personal triumph to create a redemption arc that requires to you turn inward and analyze yourself. Has Micheletto really been inspired and improved or was it a temporary change in identity? You decide… Can’t wait for more books from the author! A great read, especially if you’re looking to shake up your normal genre for historical fiction, which is exactly what I needed.

Best historical fiction novel I’ve ever read!

This book was such an amazing story on how someone can change who they are no matter what they’ve been through. I love how beautifully the setting was placed and how it felt like I was right there with the characters through the whole story. I was left with a deeper appreciation for Italian history and some of the religious turmoil going on at that time. Overall I was left loving the main character, had more understanding of the history at the time and place, and impressed by the authors creative and wonderful ability to transport the reader!