Runner Up Review:

Runner up review by Gwen Green, Kendal.

This is a delightful debut novel by K. L. Smith. Set in Tuscany, Santo Fico is a small, declining, inaccessible village whose greatest asset is a mysterious fresco in the old cathedral. Leo Pizzola (always on the look out for a quick money-making scheme returns to the vllage after 18 years in Chicago. Marta, a widow who owns the only hotel in Santo Fico, was Leo's only true love. He last saw her on the eve of her wedding to his best friend Franco. When a bus load of English tourists accidentally arrive in the square, Leo risks Marta's wrath and goes into the hotel to tell the tale of the mystery and miracles of Santo Fico, but only after a price for telling the tale is agreed upon.

One of the miracles is a greatly exaggerated story about St. Francis and the fig tree, after which the village is named. Unexpectedly, there is an earthquake that causes extensive damage to the Cathedral, but gives thieves the opportunity to steal the fresco.

The old priest, Father Elio, is nursing a great secret and he thinks the earthquake is God's punishment on him for his past sins. He decides to fast until God sends him a sign that He has forgiven him.

Marta, who knows who the thieves are, tell sloe they must create their own miracle to help save the failing priest.

What happens next is both hilarious and heart warming. This is an enjoyable, uncomplicated novel with a twist in the tale. I couldn't put it down until finished. I can highly recommend this book.