Help!  Please PM me.  Does anyone know anything about these books or authors:

Leonardo's Swans by Karen Essex

Loredana:  A Venetian Tale by Lauro Martines

I've read "Leonardo's Swans" and thought it was an okay read. I actually enjoyed Essex's descriptions of buildings more than the story line though. The actual story just kind of plodded along for me. I liked her two book series about Cleopatra better.

I'm still willing to give Essex a chance though - I have her newest book wishlisted. It's titled "Dracula in Love" and tells Mina's story. It's so weird to me that there is two or three Dracula and Mina books coming out so close together. Odd.

I haven't read the other book you mentioned, but it sure sounds good! There's only a few reviews at Amazon and they are all over the place; not very helpful, that's for sure. I'd be curious to know what you think about it if you end up reading it. ;-)

I read one of her other books. Can't remember the title. It was underwhelming. I'm not as gracious as Valli, so I don't think I'll pick her up again.

That's what I wanted to know.  I read the reviews about the books and they didn't sound like I should take the time so I thought I  would ask you all.  Thanks!