Where Theology Meets Many Worlds Theories

It is only after reading a book like this that I have come to realise just how vanishingly rare it is to encounter the truly, “original,” in literature. This has to be one of the most unique ideas for a story, at least in terms of its daring premise, that I have ever enjoyed.

Drawn to this author as a history buff, by the intriguing premise, I have been fully rewarded by an intelligently executed, creative, thoughtful, well paced and, above all, entertaining story.

It is read rather well by the narrator, though it fell short of what it could have been had the characters been invested with a little more life, and if accents had been used to reflect their very different backgrounds.

Being an enthusiastic follower of physics, thus knowing something about the, “Many Worlds,” hypothesis that sparks such controversy among scientists and philosophers, helped my enjoyment enormously. As did my (rudimentary) knowledge of Renascence Italy. Not essential for a rewarding experience, but it helps.

Ultimately, this meditation on the philosophy (and some of the catholic theology) of, “hope,” - whether that be in God or some other thing, need not be a hang up here - is a highly literate contribution to philosophy in general.

However, it ought to hit the sweet spot for those who love fantasy, historical fiction, or alternative history, “What if?” narratives.

I have never even considered Savonarola as a sympathetic historical character before. Yet, in the hands of this author, I came to actually care about him and was surprised to feel myself genuinely moved by his plight. That speaks to the skill and imagination of the author.

I am certainly going to read more of this author’s better known works, now that I have enjoyed this compelling tale so thoroughly.

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