New Historical Novel Explores Renaissance Venice Through Orphan Musician's Journey

Jennifer Wizbowski's forthcoming historical novel 'Venice, 1710 Poinsettia Girl' brings to life the compelling story of Agata de la Pieta, a young orphan musician in Renaissance Venice. The narrative follows ten-year-old Agata as her world is dramatically altered by her mother's sudden death, leaving her with only her father, a working musician in Venice. Her ailing grandmother makes the difficult decision to send Agata to the well-known Ospedale de la Pieta orphanage, removing her from everything familiar in her life.

At the conservatory-style music school within the orphanage, Agata auditions and discovers that music serves as both salvation and spectacle in her new environment. The singers perform hidden behind ornate metal grates, adorned with poinsettias in their hair, creating an aura of mystery that captivates noble audiences. Their ethereal music draws distinguished visitors, including gilded young men who view the performers not only for their musical talent but as coveted marriage prizes, representing social advancement and status.

As Agata reaches the height of her musical journey, she faces a pivotal moment when a marriage proposal from someone outside the usual audience offers the promise of a completely different life. This opportunity represents a return to the old neighborhood she has longed for and a home she barely remembers from her childhood. The conflict forces Agata to confront the most profound question of her existence: whether her purpose lies in the music that has defined her identity or in the love that might ultimately free her from the constraints of her current life.

The novel is published by Historium Press, a hybrid book publisher specializing in historical fiction that focuses on various subgenres including literary, romance, time travel, mystery, fantasy, biography, adventure, young adult, thriller, and nonfiction. The publisher offers special hybrid packages for historical authors seeking quality publishing combined with book marketing and public relations support, with the goal of helping authors develop their brand and reach wider audiences. Books are available through Ingram Distributors with a 55% wholesale discount and are returnable, making them accessible to booksellers and libraries. Readers can find more information about the author and her work through her website at https://www.gossamermedia.com and learn about the publisher at https://www.historiumpress.com.

This publication represents a significant contribution to historical fiction that explores the lives of women whose stories have often been lost to history. By focusing on the experiences of ordinary women in extraordinary circumstances, the novel provides insight into the social structures and cultural dynamics of Renaissance Venice, particularly the unique position of orphan musicians in society. The story's exploration of identity, purpose, and the tension between artistic calling and personal relationships resonates with contemporary readers while remaining firmly grounded in historical context.