Daughters of the Silk Road — Debbie Rix

‘She crossed over to the shelf where her father kept the dragon vase. He had placed it there when they first arrived in Venice. She took it down carefully, feeling it cool and comforting under her shaking fingers.'

Venice 1441: Maria and her brother Daniele arrive in the birthplace of their father, Niccolo dei Conti. An Italian merchant who has travelled far and wide, Niccolo has brought spices from India, lengths of silk and damask from the lands east of India and porcelain; a vase of pure white, its surface decorated with a cobalt blue dragon, the Chinese symbol of good fortune.

Maria settles in her new home, watching the magnificent and bustling city come to life each morning from her bedroom window. But while her father is away travelling, she soon finds herself and Daniele in terrible danger. She must protect her brother at whatever cost, and she must guard the delicate vase.

London 2015: Single mother Miranda is struggling to make ends meet and build a new life for her and daughter Georgie. When Miranda meets the charming but mysterious Charles, she is intrigued. Could he be her second chance at love? And why is he so fascinated by the old vase sitting on her hall table…

A stunning and richly evocative story following the journey of a precious family treasure passed down from one generation to another. Perfect for fans of Dinah Jefferies and Kate Morton.

Read what everyone is saying about Secrets of the Tower:

‘A wonderfully written novel…definitely a book to add to your library. Not only was it highly informative, but immensely entertaining.' Historical Novel Review

‘Secrets Of The Tower is an enchanting, engaging tale that I recommend to anyone interested in Italian history and architecture, or just a good novel.' History and Other Thoughts

‘Debbie manages to evoke the sights, sounds and smells as though you are standing right there. A truly lovely novel.' Reading Room with a View

‘The book is beautifully written and the Italian setting is perfectly drawn in both modern and historical settings, with sufficient detail to bring Pisa vividly to life, clearly by someone who loves it and knows it well…this is a wonderful story.' Being Anne Reading

‘Debbie had me completely transported back to 12th Century Pisa, and I loved every second of it. The drama, secrets, and scandal, the lust, the love, the heartbreak, I was mesmerized… This book is so soundly structured and beautifully written.' Paris Baker's Book Nook

'The author has an incredible knack of bringing the characters to life. I could picture the landscape and the lives being led in 12th century Pisa â€" it felt like I was right there, experiencing everything. A beautiful story from an exceptional new author.' Renita D'Silva

'Perfect historical fiction mixed with present day. I can't say enough how much I enjoyed this book. I gobbled it up over the afternoon and night. Definitely want to read this author again.' Nik Book Lover