Lucrezia de’ Medici was the apple of her father’s eye. As the third daughter of the grand duke, she was content with her obscure place in the palace. She spent her days admiring the treasures, the clandestine workings and engaging in her artistic pursuits without any concern about the outside world.
However, her life took an unexpected turn when her older sister unexpectedly passed away before her wedding to the regent of Ferrara, Modena and Reggio. The Duke quickly requested her hand in marriage, and her father was quick to accept on her behalf.
Lucrezia, having barely left her girlhood behind, must now enter an unfamiliar court whose customs are opaque and where her arrival is not universally welcomed. Most mystifying of all is her new husband, Alfonso, who is not what he seems to be.
In this historical fiction, Maggie O’Farrell weaves a story of a young woman’s battle for her very survival. As Lucrezia starts to navigate through the unfamiliar court, she faces various challenges that eventually compel her to fight for autonomy.
From the author of Hamnet, O’Farrell brings the world of Renaissance Italy to life in an unforgettable fictional portrait of the captivating young duchess Lucrezia de’ Medici. Her writing style is so vivid and immersive, I could barely put the book down. The imagery is breathtaking and the characters are so well-crafted that readers can’t help but feel invested in their fates.
The novel is set in Florence, Italy, during the 1550s. O’Farrell’s attention to historical detail is impressive, and she successfully transports readers to a bygone era that is rich in tradition and culture. By lacing the narrative with little threads of historical detail, she creates an immersive and authentic experience for readers.
Lucrezia’s character is captivating, and you can’t help but root for her throughout the story. She’s intelligent, ambitious, and resilient – the perfect combination of qualities for a leader. Her fight for autonomy and independence is awe-inspiring, and her journey is both emotional and empowering.
In the court’s eyes, Lucrezia has one duty: to provide an heir who will shore up the future of the Ferranese dynasty. Until then, for all of her rank and nobility, the new duchess’s future hangs entirely in the balance. This puts immense pressure on her throughout the book, as she feels like her worth is measured solely by her ability to produce an heir.
However, despite the heavy themes, the story is ultimately a riveting tale about one woman’s fight for autonomy. It’s a story that empowers readers to embrace their individuality and to never stop fighting for what they believe in.
In conclusion, I could not put this book down. Maggie O’Farrell’s writing style is so captivating that it transports readers to another world. The characters are well-crafted, the storyline is immersive, and the themes are both empowering and thought-provoking. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, then this book is an absolute must-read. So, grab a copy and prepare to be transported to Renaissance Italy!
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Price: $14.99
(as of Mar 25,2023 22:24:25 UTC – Details)
