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Hers is the most famous portrait in the world. Here, in prose as rich as the high Renaissance, is Mona Lisa’s tale—a story of passion, intrigue, loss, and, most of all, love. Elisabetta longs for romance, though she thinks she is too plain. Then, on a fateful visit to glittering Florence, she catches the eye of the great Leonardo da Vinci, and falls for a boy named Giuliano de’ Medici. It is a dangerous time to be—or be involved with—a Medici. As tragedy and chaos threaten their happiness, Elisabetta faces the bittersweet truth of love.
Lovely. One of my new favorites. This story is absolutely amazing. After starting and tossing aside so many dud YA novels lately, I was so excited when this story instantly drew me in–not because the story was instantly exciting, but because Elizabetta (Mona Lisa) is a compelling character. I was able to connect emotionally to the story, and I felt every joy and heartache that Elizabetta felt. It was also quite refreshing to read a story that doesn’t nauseate me with the “he’s so cute” romance (which I think I’ve had my fill of lately). The romance in this story is tender and draws me in to the emotions.The story is true to life, and for those who like “Disney endings” this book may not be as enjoyable. But I think it was a lovely story.
Beautiful and entertaining story, plus interesting Italian history Author Donna Jo Napoli has done it again! This book is a wonderfully written story of a young girl who could conceivably have posed for Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting. Although the book is fiction, it tells a realistic and believable story.As usual, Ms. Napoli has done her research on this topic. The story includes many interesting details of Italian life, politics, and power struggles in Florence circa 1490′s – early 1500′s. This is more that just a simple YA book, as are all Ms. Napoli’s works. This is a story of love, death, family loyalty, war, decadence, religion, politics, class struggles, etc. It is also a coming of age story, as seen through the eyes of the main character, Elisabetta – aka “Monna Lisa”.This book is thoroughly entertaining as well as emotional and moving. Anyone who likes accurate historical details woven into their love stories will enjoy this book. The characters are believable and sympathetic. Also great for fans of Leonardo da Vinci – she includes some thoughtful descriptions of him and the Renaissance art world. Written for teens, but sophisticated enough for adult fans of historical fiction as well! I highly recommend it.
Fabulous! On a recent trip to Italy we had to choose books that could be enjoyed by an 11 year old, her Mom and grandma. This book was everyone’s favorite! In fact Donna Jo Napoli’s books are fabulous at any age! Wonderful historical fiction, she is my favorite!