The Hill of Venus
by Nathan Gallizier (1866–1927)
- Free to read
- 6 hours to read
- 35 chapters
- Reading level: 6th grade
"The Hill of Venus" by Nathan Gallizier is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of 13th-century Italy, the narrative follows Francesco Villani, a young man burdened by the weight of his illegitimate heritage, as he confronts themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. The story intricately weaves elements of romance and destiny, as Francesco grapples with his father's dying wish for him to enter a monastic life, sacrificing his own aspirations for the sake of atonement. The opening of the novel establishes a rich and evocative atmosphere, capturing the serene beauty of the Basilicata region during the summer solstice. Francesco rides toward the monastery of San Cataldo, reflecting on his life and the relationship with his estranged father, Gregorio Villani, the Grand Master of the Knights Hospitallers. As he reaches his father's bedside, the gravity of the situation becomes clear—Gregorio is dying and harbors a heavy burden of guilt regarding Francesco’s origins. Their poignant conversation reveals the elder Villani's desperate wish for atonement through his son's vow to the Church, thrusting Francesco into a world of obligation and longing for a life not meant for him, thus setting the stage for the unfolding drama of his conflicts—both internal and external.
- Italy · History · 13th century
Read the opening
Chapter I
THE SUMMONS
It was the time of the summer solstice in the year 1266.
Evening was falling on the Basilicata, the shadowy, hazy twilight of the fading midsummer day. The pale green leaves of the olive-branches hung limply from their boughs, but the great willows which drooped over the meandering tide of the Garigliano now and then stirred a feathery twig in response to the delicate touch of the evening breeze. The sun had entered the waters of ancient Liris for his evening bath, leaving his robes of crimson and gold draped in the western sky.
Everything in this fabled land had grown enchanted in the sunset glow. The plane-trees drooped their leaves, as if wrapped in silent dreams. In the poppy-fields the shrill insect voices were hushed, wan presage of the coming dusk. The Liris rolled his sunset crimson gold between the broken scenery of the hills, and the dark forests of the Murgie spread waving shadows over the sun-kissed Apulian plains.
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About this edition
This free edition of The Hill of Venus by Nathan Gallizier comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #39970, released 2012-06-11. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Historical Novels, Romance.
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