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A review by historic_chronicles
The Maiden of Florence by Katherine Mezzacappa
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
It is Florence, 1584 and rumours are circulating wildly about the Prince of Mantua's virility as he attempts to marry into the infamous Medici family. A young and pleasing orphan, Giulia is selected to end the rumours surrounding the prince once and for all in return to gain her own freedom, a substantial dowry and a husband of her own. Having lived sheltered away in a cloister since a young age, Giulia reluctantly agrees, only to be taken under stifling control of the Medici's Minister Vinta in her naivety.
Years pass and her side of the bargain is complete, Giulia is living in peaceful obscurity when a threat from her past arrives to disrupt her family, encouraging her to tell the truth of the events in Florence once and for all.
Based on historical events, this novel flows with tension and intrigue from the very first page. With a diverse cast of characters, Mezzacappa skillfully intertwines the lives of those who are fictional with those who were living and breathing during this vibrant period of time.
The author's narrative highlights the authenticity of the research carried out, which only adds to the horror and passion of the events that occur to the lead character, Giulia, who is herself also beautifully written.
While set in an idyllic location of renaissance Italy, Mezzacappa does not shy away from the heavy themes featured in this novel including the consequences of a patriarchal society, and finding the inner strength to overcome insidious influences.
This is sure to please the historical fiction fan.
My greatest thanks to @rachelsrandomresources who invited me onto the tour for this novel, and to @fairlightbooks who provided the beautiful proof copy.
Years pass and her side of the bargain is complete, Giulia is living in peaceful obscurity when a threat from her past arrives to disrupt her family, encouraging her to tell the truth of the events in Florence once and for all.
Based on historical events, this novel flows with tension and intrigue from the very first page. With a diverse cast of characters, Mezzacappa skillfully intertwines the lives of those who are fictional with those who were living and breathing during this vibrant period of time.
The author's narrative highlights the authenticity of the research carried out, which only adds to the horror and passion of the events that occur to the lead character, Giulia, who is herself also beautifully written.
While set in an idyllic location of renaissance Italy, Mezzacappa does not shy away from the heavy themes featured in this novel including the consequences of a patriarchal society, and finding the inner strength to overcome insidious influences.
This is sure to please the historical fiction fan.
My greatest thanks to @rachelsrandomresources who invited me onto the tour for this novel, and to @fairlightbooks who provided the beautiful proof copy.