Assessment:
Plot/Idea: The author has created an intriguing historical mystery surrounding the mysterious death of a nun in 1886, a mystery that becomes central to the narrator's present moment. While readers will find the research into Sister Catherine's death interesting, the plot is weighted down by the logistics behind it—and the numerous subplots, while engaging, add to that weight.
Prose: The prose is clear and engaging, and the insertion of journal entries and archival interviews adds welcome breaks to Cora's narration, creating an overall smoothly crafted story.
Originality: The novel has a definitive niche, but the mystery—and the way it moves between past and present—is spellbinding. The author combines an eclectic array of elements—religious mysticism, the paranormal, and more—that overlap to produce this unique story.
Character/Execution: Most of the narrative pivots around Cora, an empathetic, well-rounded character whose experiences in this novel are intense. Indigenous Americans and Mexicans are portrayed as rather primitive, overly superstitious, uneducated, and criminal in comparison to the European settlers, giving the novel a decidedly Euro-centric, and inaccurate, view of settler history.
Blurb: Cora Tozzi gets more than she bargained for when she uncovers a mystery that might have connections to a real-life miracle.
Date Submitted: May 19, 2023
Pat Camalliere's special brand of investigation of psychological and mystery matters is simply delightful...It's rare to see a novel as accessible to a wide audience of readers...Highly recommended...invites thought and discussion...Cora's dilemmas and revelations about life, death, and what lies between are both intriguing and thoroughly engrossing.
...the finest details of research and surprises with many breathtaking twists in the plot...An exceptional writing style...I highly recommend The Miracle at Assisi Hill by Pat Camalliere
...one of the most beautiful moments I've experienced in contemporary literature...what makes Camalliere special as an author is that she fleshes out an entire story, she does not simply end it.
Beautifully nuanced...this is a fantastic novel that is wholly engrossing and Camalliere has just roped in a new fan. Very highly recommended.
The Miracle at Assisi Hill is a moving and captivating piece of literature that enthralled, entertained, and captivated me from the very first page. Everything about this piece of fiction was gripping and made me fall madly in love with this book...utterly brilliant...a captivating and touching mystery that shouldn't be missed...full of many exciting moments and many twists and turns.
