Teatro La Fenice is an opera house in Venice, Italy. Opening in 1792, this theatre has hosted some of the world's best talent. Giuseppe Verdi's work was showcased here, which I would have loved to have seen. The theatre had a long history of shenanagins, grandeur, and fire before the fire that is the focus of this book. On January 29, 1996, a fire completely destroyed the theatre. The only thing that was saved, was the acoustics, which has just been measured two months before. Arson was immediately suspected, as there had been no storms or any other circumstances that would have caused the place to ignite. (I won't give away any of the juicy details and ruin the book.) Reconstruction began in 2001, and pictures of the current building are beautiful.

I really enjoyed Midnight In The Garden Of Good And Evil, and when I saw this one on the library's sale table, I HAD to get it. I love the writing style of this author, and was pleased with this book. I think the way he is able to tell the story in a way that keeps your attention while also communicating history and details is amazing. The research was great as well. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.