The novel “Il pentimento del Principe d'Elbeuf” arrives in Italian bookstores on March 28, 2025, enriching the historic series “Lo Specchio di Silvia” by the publisher Colonnese. Written by Marco Perillo, the story takes place in the evocative setting of the “Miglio d'Oro” during the Bourbon era.
Article Key Points
The plot
The story is set in 1738, with the return of the Prince of Elbeuf, Emmanuel Maurice of Lorraine, to his imposing residence after almost thirty years of absence. The indebted prince hopes to find a statue of Calliope, muse of poetry, one of the many finds that emerged from his secret excavations in the area of Herculaneum. However, his plans may be thwarted by the young King Charles of Bourbon, who wishes to build a palace in the same area.
The author
Marco Perillo, born in Naples in 1983, is known for his work as a journalist for the newspaper Il Mattino. He made his debut in the publishing world with the archaeological thriller “Phlegraios” published in 2014. Subsequently, in 2020, he published a collection of short stories entitled “Napùl”. Perillo is also the author of various volumes focused on the history and mysteries of Naples, and is the curator of the guide “Il Sogno Reale”, associated with the “Campania Teatro Festival”.
Article published on March 26, 2025 - 16pm
The novel of the Prince of Elbeuf seems interesting but I don't know if the plot attracts me so much, maybe because the Bourbon era is not very fascinating. I hope it is well written even if I have doubts about the characters.