Parvenze e sembianze

In the glittering courts of 13th‑century Naples, the celebrated knight Bertramo d’Aquino finds his reputation for valor and generosity tested by a far more delicate battle. At a lavish royal feast he catches sight of Fiola Torrella, the striking wife of his long‑time friend Corrado, and is instantly consumed by an impossible desire. Despite his countless deeds, generous gifts, and heartfelt pleas, Fiola remains aloof, guarded by pride and a fear of scandal, leaving Bertramo to wander the palace corridors, hoping for even a fleeting glance.

As the season of tournaments and hunts unfolds, the story follows Bertramo’s earnest, often desperate, attempts to bridge the chasm between admiration and affection. Friends offer counsel, rumors swirl about hidden lovers, and the court’s ever‑present intrigue adds layers of complexity to his quest. Through lyrical narration and vivid medieval scenery, the novel captures the tension between knightly honor and the yearning of the human heart, inviting listeners to experience a timeless tale of love unfulfilled.