Jennifer Wizbowski's debut historical novel 'Venice, 1710 Poinsettia Girl' tells the story of Agata de la Pieta, a ten-year-old orphan musician at Venice's Ospedale de la Pieta in the early 18th century. The novel explores Agata's journey after her mother's sudden death leaves her with only her musician father, leading her ailing grandmother to send her to the famous orphanage where music becomes both salvation and spectacle.
The book reveals how the orphanage's singers performed hidden behind ornate metal grates with poinsettias in their hair, their ethereal music drawing noble audiences who saw them as treasures not only for their sound but as potential marriage prizes. As Agata reaches the height of her musical training, she faces a marriage proposal from outside the audience that offers a return to her old neighborhood and the possibility of family, forcing her to choose between the music that has defined her and the love that might free her.
Wizbowski, who holds a bachelor's degree in English literature with a minor in music, now focuses on illuminating everyday women's stories often lost in historical shadows. Her work with Historium Press represents a growing trend in publishing that brings attention to overlooked historical narratives. The publisher, which specializes in historical fiction across multiple subgenres including literary, romance, and biography, aims to help authors develop their brand and reach wider audiences through hybrid publishing packages that combine quality publishing with marketing and public relations support.
The novel's publication through Historium Press, available in both hardcover and paperback formats through Ingram Distributors with a 55% wholesale discount, demonstrates how hybrid publishers are creating new pathways for historical fiction authors. Readers interested in learning more about the author can visit her website, while those curious about the publisher can explore Historium Press's offerings.
This novel matters because it contributes to the growing body of historical fiction that centers women's experiences and explores how institutions like orphanages functioned as both shelters and performance venues in historical contexts. The story of Agata de la Pieta represents countless women whose lives and artistic contributions have been overlooked in traditional historical narratives, making this publication significant for readers interested in women's history, music history, and the social structures of 18th century Europe.
The book's exploration of music as both personal salvation and public spectacle raises important questions about artistic purpose versus personal fulfillment that remain relevant today. For the publishing industry, works like 'Venice, 1710 Poinsettia Girl' demonstrate the continued vitality of historical fiction and the importance of platforms that support authors telling diverse historical stories, particularly those focused on women's experiences that traditional historical records often marginalize.
