A review by suzannedix
Da Vinci's Tiger by L.M. Elliott

Da Vinci’s Tiger is a novel of place and time, atmospheric in the opulence and splendor of 15th century Florence. Finding societal roles limiting, Ginevra de’ Benci struggles to find her voice among so many male poets and artists living among the wealthy Medici family with their love of culture and art. Ginevra in her own right is a progressive and intelligent young woman but is trapped in a loveless arranged marriage. However through her family’s wealth and influence in Florence, Ginevra moves among a well-educated crowd and soon catches the eye of several artists who use her lovely and wise face on canvas and in sculpture. Leonardo da Vinci, apprenticed to Andrea del Verrocchio, forms a genuine friendship with Ginevra, appreciating her intelligence and grace. Commissioned by a powerful ambassador, who also seems to have amorous plans for Ginevra, da Vinci paints one of his best-known works featuring Ginevra and her intense gaze. While this novel will have limited appeal due to its deliberate slow pace, this well documented historical fiction is abundant with day to day details of life during the Renaissance. The narration is tedious at times with Ginevra’s voice coming off as whiny or breathless, presenting her more as vapid than valiant. The author’s note includes a link to view all of the paintings discussed in the novel as well as images of Florence.