The Stone Witch of Florence

Jewelry historian Rasche debuts with an engrossing novel of 14th-century Florence that sees a woman accused of witchcraft called back from exile to help solve a case of stolen holy relics. Ginerva di Gasparo was born in 1320 Genoa, where the rising influence of Christianity made it hazardous to perform the rituals she learned from her ancestors, including a “priestess who could talk to oak trees” and a soothsayer. She’s 20 years old and living in Florence when Bishop Angiolo Acciaiuoli discovers she’s been healing the sick with gemstones and banishes her to Genoa. Eight years later, Angiolo offers to allow her to return to Florence on the condition she help him find the culprit who made off with a set of relics, which have taken on new significance since the city was beset with the bubonic plague. Ginerva accepts, and Angiolo permits her to use her magical abilities for the mission. Rasche’s vivid depictions of medieval Florence aid the reader in suspending disbelief in the supernatural elements, and the solution to the case turns out to be equal parts surprising and logical. Fans of M.J. Rose should take note. Agent: Stefanie Lieberman, Janklow & Nesbit Assoc. (Oct.)