Ruthless

A Novel Set in Gothic Verona

By: C. De Melo

Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller

Agata flees from Verona to Venice with nothing but the clothes on her back. Accused of witchcraft, she prefers to risk the unknown than face the terrifying charge. Starving and cold, she wanders the streets in search of honest work, but her efforts are fruitless. She eventually finds temporary respite in the sordid world of prostitution, but the sobering reality of human cruelty destroys her innocence.

Determined to secure her financial and social future, she aids the Veronese warlord Cangrande I della Scala in committing vile acts that will earn her a place in Hell. Although she is handsomely compensated, she wants more - and she'll do whatever it takes to get it.

©2018 Christine De Melo (P)2019 Christine De Melo

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Titled appropriately! The beginning was a bit slow, but boy it truly picked up.
It was a very entertaining listen!

Loved it

I really loved this book. I liked that it wasn’t very predictable. Was a very good listen.

Powerful

This is a gripping story about a young girl’s struggle for justice in a patriarchal society. Despite her ongoing obstacles, she overcomes in the end with sheer force of will. This is a powerful feminist example of using the strength of femininity to overcome the ignorance of the toxic masculine. A page turner!

abuses and suffering at men's hands

The male chauvinism and poor treatment of Agata was gutwrenching and soul shattering. Kudos to Agata and her strength to survive what she had to. I had a hard time listening to all the abuses Agata suffered at the hands of men. Smh!!! Alas , she does find some form of happiness with someone she cares for, but at what a price. I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this and am giving an honest review . The narrator did a great job bringing the characters and story to life. This is the 12th audiobook from this author that I've enjoyed.

Wonderful !!!

oh yeah I legally have to say I was given a free code for this book and asked if I would kindly leave a review. Which I don't see the difference!!! Now for the book, Set in Italy and they way the people talk and dress and live feels Italian in the writing. This book is a testament to women's hard lives and our preservence for a better life for ourselves and our loved ones. When I was listening to this book I felt I was right there. I finished this book in one sitting. I'm surprised by how much I loved this book. I recommend it for anyone who likes historical, romance, strong female leads, atmospheric novels. There is some violence and strong sexual talk but only what's needed. I wasn't offended at any point or thought it was too much. But WoW I'm so grateful to C. De Melon for sharing this great book with me!! He also gave me two other books I'm going to go listen to the next one right now.