It's the chance of a lifetime for Celia Sands. Her mentor, who is more like a father to her, is directing a play written two generations ago by Italian poet Galeazzo D'Ascanio. D'Ascanio's play was inspired by his mistress, also named Celia Sands, who vanished on opening night. Celia has been trying to work under the stage name Celia Sullivan but she's been offered the lead in the play with the condition she uses her real name, Celia Sands. What secrets still lay uncovered in the Italian villa owned by D'Ascanio's family?

The beautifully drawn historical details are part of the allure of any Susanna Kearsley novel and the rich history of Italy seeps through every page of SEASON OF STORMS. Susanna Kearsley brings to vivid life the drama and suspense surrounding the first Celia Sands' disappearance while absorbing the reader in a new mystery.

While there is a hint of the paranormal, SEASON OF STORMS is more about the characters and their relationships. I love watching Celia grow and develop as a character. She's a bit immature initially but her love and loyalty overshadow any weaknesses. Watching her with Poppy is particularly enjoyable as she sees a bit of herself in the child.

SEASON OF STORMS is a lushly drawn tale in which the history of Italy is as much a character as the various actors performing D'Ascanio's play. Susanna Kearsley's lyrical writing once again shines in SEASON OF STORMS.