The Girl with Emerald Eyes

A richly drawn and absorbing novel of passion and power, love and redemption that will captivate fans of Victoria Hislop, Tracy Chevalier and Kate Furnivall.

Two women, centuries apart, bound together by the secrets of one of the most iconic buildings ever created.

Pisa, 1999: Sam Campbell sits by her husband’s hospital bed. Far from home and her children, she must care for Michael who is recovering from a stroke. A man she loves deeply. A man who has been unfaithful to her.

Alone and in need of distraction, Sam decides to pick up Michael’s research into the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Immersing herself in the ancient city, she begins to piece together the mystery behind the creation of the tower, and discovers the woman that history forgot…

Pisa, 1171: Berta di Bernardo, the wife of a rich merchant, sits in her chamber, dressing for a dinner party. A gathering that will change the course of her life and that of a young master mason, Gerardo, forever.

A strong, intelligent woman, Berta’s passion for architecture draws her to Gerardo. As she embarks on a love affair, her maid Aurelia also becomes spellbound by the same man. Yet for Berta, her heart’s desire is to see the Tower built, and her determination knows no bounds…

Note: Previously published as Secrets of the Tower

What people are saying about The Girl with Emerald Eyes

‘Fascinating.’ Hello!

‘A wonderfully written novel…definitely a book to add to your library. Not only was it highly informative, but immensely entertaining.’ Historical Novel Review

‘An enchanting, engaging tale that I recommend to anyone interested in Italian history and architecture, or just a good novel.’ History and Other Thoughts

‘The book is beautifully written and the Italian setting is perfectly drawn in both modern and historical settings, with sufficient detail to bring Pisa vividly to life, clearly by someone who loves it and knows it well…this is a wonderful story.’ Being Anne Reading

‘Debbie had me completely transported back to 12th Century Pisa, and I loved every second of it. The drama, secrets, and scandal, the lust, the love, the heartbreak, I was mesmerized… This book is so soundly structured and beautifully written.’ 5/5 stars Paris Baker’s Book Nook

‘The author has an incredible knack of bringing the characters to life. I could picture the landscape and the lives being led in 12th century Pisa – it felt like I was right there, experiencing everything. A beautiful story from an exceptional new author – it was hard to believe this is her debut as it is assuredly written and unfolds brilliantly towards a satisfying climax.’ Renita D’Silva

‘Perfect historical fiction mixed with present day. I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed this book. I gobbled it up over the afternoon and night. Definitely want to read this author again.’ Nik Book Lover

‘Very absorbing with realistic characters…the book is outstanding.’ That Thing She Reads

‘A fabulous read. I loved this book so much…so beautifully written.’ AJ Book Review Club

‘Debbie Rix is a hugely talented writer and it’s hard to believe this is her first novel as she writes with such confidence and assurance of her time and place. The characters and setting just leap off the pages.… If you are looking for a historic read that’s just that little bit different you can’t go wrong with this wonderful début from Debbie Rix.’ Shaz’s Book Blog

‘It was fascinating to read Debbie’s descriptions of Pisa long ago. She manages to evoke the sights, sounds and smells as though you are standing right there. A truly lovely novel.’ Reading Room with a View