The Maiden of Florence

by Katherine Mezzacappa

Florence, 1584. Rumours are spreading about the virility of a prince marrying into the powerful Medici family. Orphan Giulia is chosen to put an end to the gossip. In return she will gain her freedom, and start a new life with a dowry and her own husband. Cloistered since childhood and an innocent in a world ruled by men, Giulia reluctantly agrees, only to be drawn under the control of the Medicis’ lecherous minister.

Years later, married and with a growing family, Giulia hopes she has finally escaped the legacy of her past. But when a threat arrives from a sinister figure from her youth, she must finally take control of events – and become the author of her own story.

Based on true events and reminiscent of The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell, The Maiden of Florence gives a charismatic voice to a woman cast aside by history.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Italy, Historical, Fiction, Renaissance

336 pages, Hardcover

First published April 18, 2024

Reviews

[Roman Clodia · Rating 3 out of 5]

My defloration was talked about in all the courts of Europe. My hymen, which the Prioress in Florence had urged me to dedicate to a holy bridegroom, was peered at by men, prodded, tested, certified, then overthrown, its bloody extinction observed and written of from Venice to Florence, to Mantua, to Ferrara, to Rome.

There's much that I liked about this novel but I ended up getting bored and didn't finish it.

What I like is that Mezzacappa has taken the true story of an orphaned young woman from the Medici archives and recounted the documented story of how she was used to test the virility of Vincenzo Gonzaga before his marriage in late sixteenth century Florence. These chapters from the beginning tell this tale with effusive detail in Giulia's own voice, and don't evade any of the bodily details all of which had to be recounted and recorded in order to enable this state marriage. It is a test of masculinity and it's Gonzaga's ability to consummate his planned marriage and father children that is at stake here with Giulia merely the material on which he is to perform.

All of this is rendered with an acute concern for historical accuracy, depending on the archives, and gives a credible account of marriage and sex as public events for the perpetuation of aristocratic lineages and inheritances. So far, so good.

But once this recorded story of Giulia is completed the book then moves into fictional space and this is where the story lost me. Dramatic plots fell back into the histfic mode and the realism that I had so enjoyed didn't continue - at that point I cut my losses, skimmed the final chapter and did not finish the book.

I'd say, though, that this would suit readers who want a more accurate portrait of what life might have been like for a beautiful and lone young woman with no family in sixteenth century Italy. This book doesn't make Giulia a modern woman in fancy dress: she doesn't have agency, she doesn't abandon the mores and customs of her time and flounce around making demands and having adventures. She is very much a tool of the patriarchal state and even a rudimentary education and literacy is something unusual for this period for a woman of her class and rank.

The writing is fluent and involving but I'd say characterisation is not a feature here. Essentially, this does an excellent job of novelising the archival case but I wish it had ended there. Once this took a turn into imagining how this story might have developed in a plot-y way the vibe changed.

[Rhian Eleri · Rating 4 out of 5]

...'An honest wife, a chaste one,' he said, 'is timid, yielding. She defers to her husband in all things. She keeps to her home most of all, and if she ventures out, does not do so unaccompanied, and does not look at the faces of the strangers she encounters. Yet she must seek to please her husband, whilst not being forward with him'...

It's 1584, Florence, Italy.
Young Orphan Guilia is taken from her mundane existence within the Innocentri where she resided with the nuns, and used by the famous Medici family to dissuade gossip about a beloved, respected Prince!
Here, she experiences such cruel exploitation. As an innocent young girl, desperate for freedom, she goes along with everything put forward to her, locks the badness away from her mind, but there are some things a woman just can't forget.
Here is a story based on true events.

For a story set in this time period, it was written in such a way that was relevant and clear that makes sense to modern readers of today.
Despite the dark disturbing details of the sexual exploitation young Guilia experienced at the beginning of the book, it was done so well that I felt it made her character really come to life and I was instantly rooting for her and what was to become of her.

This novel has got me wanting more from this period, particularly the story of the Medici family, I'm going to be reading more about this for sure.

...'Leave a light behind, and wait beyond the door', said the Prince. 'When I have taken aim and unleashed my arrow then I shall call for you, that you all may bear witness to it quivering in its target'...

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was more moving than I thought it would be! I have read other similar stories set in Italy during the same time period, but this was quite different. For a start it was more graphic in quite an uncomfortable but not inappropriate way; secondly the language was simpler and less flowery which somehow made the story more vital and impactful. Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.

[Maeghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow, this was incredible! I learned so much in this book, without it being overwhelming or too complicated. The time of the Medici's has always been so interesting to me, so to see things from this angle was refreshing. I did have to do a bit of a wiki spiral to get all of my ducks in a row, but I was really glad of it. I'm a sucker for historical fiction that isn't about the First or Second World Wars so this was just amazing.

My only qualm is whether Giulia was a real person or not? I know the other key players were, as little as I could find on them but for Giulia I'm not sure. For her to have been an unrecongized orphan, it unlikely that she was Giulia de' Medici (the illegitimate but recognized daughter or Alessandro de' Medici). Plus the timelines in this book don't align with her (b. 1535, d. 1588).

The author did an amazing job in terms of the writing. I felt all the feelings when reading Giulia's passages, and was so happy when we were given those of Giuliano! I honestly have so much praise for this book, it totally got me out of my reading slump and was just so interesting!! I'll absolutely grab a print copy once published (also helps that the cover is stunning!), and I look forward to any other books the author may bring out.

Thank you so much to Netgalley for this ARC!

[Haz Packer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trying not to be so stingy with my 5🌟 reviews; although this book wasn’t perfect I had an incredible time reading it and loved the historic setting, Guilia as a main character and being with her as her story unfolds. The opening line alone had me hooked and I was instantly drawn into the world of religion in 16th century Italy. Though some of the depictions of the landscapes fell a little flat, the imagery of the churches, the finery and the architecture were vivid. As you realise Guilia is writing her story for her mother you realise that the place names, and old language aren’t overly description as Guilia’s mother would be aware of such things and therefore I didn’t overly care. Guilia’s reckoning of religion, sin and shame was well crafted as she tries to understand her role as a woman, virgin, wife, and mother. She used in the most horrific way, for the sake of Florence, and is told that this is her duty. Being from a religious orphanage Guilia struggled to reconcile this with the bible teachings around sex before marriage and mortal sin.

I also really enjoyed the fifty or so pages we had from Guilia’s eventual husband. He was able to add more depth to the story and offer a new perspective. I think the length of time we were with him was perfect as it gave enough to understand his character and his relationship with Guilia before we returned to her as the protagonist. Vinta is pure evil and his schemes and machinations to ensnare Guilia back to him were sickening. Although I found the constant dialogue around her beauty quite tedious at times (yes we get she’s beautiful how many more times can we be told), it is her mind and strong character that I found the most compelling. Her life had been a hard one and as someone who loves a character study, especially in a historic setting, I loved watching Guilia through the years. This isn’t a time period I’ve read much about, nor do I know much about the history of Italy so, like all great writing, this has definitely piqued my interest especially with the historical note at the end.

[Diana · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’m calling it quits at the 50% mark - this is just badly written.
Based on a real life story surrounding a 16th century Italian nobleman who wanted to marry into the de’ Medici family and was made to “prove” his virility, this is told from the perspective of the girl he has to demonstrate it on. It’s as grotesque as it sounds.
The story is so interesting and considering how little is known of this girl and what became of her, you basically have free reign writing historical fiction about this and could’ve gone into a lot of different directions - does the girl maybe really come to care for this nobleman, become his mistress maybe? Or does she just want to disappear and is embittered about the horrible things that were done to her?
As it is, we get a bizarre play-by-play of how orphan girl Giulia is taken out of the nunnery/ prison she grew up in, basically having never seen any men before, and is then brought to Venice so this nobleman can rape her. But the way it’s written is just bad, you never get the sense she has any real thoughts and feelings and there was an entire section that basically just read like barely disguised porn. There’s this whole thing about how she knows absolutely nothing about men and sex and they have explain it to her like a child, think Poor Things; it’s just ridiculous.
I gave up halfway through because we then suddenly switch to the perspective of the guy she gets married to and I just can’t be arsed to find out what happens to any of them. There’s no pull to the story at all, it’s just going nowhere.

[Phil Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

harrowing tale of sexual exploitation

The author is a real master of words. She brings Giulia’s harrowing story to life with a deftness I find humbling as a historical author.

Meticulous research brings Florence and Venice of the late 16th Century/early 17th century alive.

5/5 stars.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Giulia is a young woman living in an orphanage when she is selected for a special task. She will do anything to escape the confines of the institution so agrees despite not knowing what they want her to do. In order to prove his virility to the Medici family so he can wed one of their daughters, a prince must deflower a young virgin. This is based on a true story although nothing is known of Giulia after the deed has been done. The author imagines a life for her from the few documents that have survived in Italy's archives. It's a shocking story in some ways but anybody who knows history is aware that women and the poor were not treated well in the past. It's great that Giulia has been given a voice and a happy ending.

[Tyler Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Devoured this novel!!

Katherine transports you straight to Italy with her amazing story telling and descriptions, each chapter of this read I found myself getting more and more engrossed within the life of Giulia an fmc that I felt an instant connection to. This mc that you will root for!

This book definitely touches on darker subjects but the author does it so flawlessly that this isn’t a dark read but instead helps build more depth to the story. Based on true events you get to live within the past and see how different life was back then. I enjoyed the deep dive into Italian history and the Medici family you get to see in this book and if you like history like me this is a truly captivating read.

[Elise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Can I please read something soon that won't be a three-star read? I'm kind of done with mediocre books now.

This sadly was a bit of a disappointment. I didn't have high hopes to begin with, but it describes itself as reminiscent of The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell, which is a phrase that should just be deleted ASAP. The Maiden of Florence had none of the beautiful writing, interesting characters and intrigue that TMP is known for.

With these historical fictions based on true events, that are supposed to feature a strong female main character, I look for resilient women who stand up for themselves during the hardships they face. Guilia, our main character, doesn't really do so. The is quite meek and is too heavily dependent on others. I never saw the love she had for her children. She would say that she loved them, but the children were barely active in the story, they just were names, nothing more.

Just like I always end my three-star reviews; I didn't feel anything towards this book, but it also didn't do anything to make me dislike it. I wouldn't recommend spending your time on this, because this has now been the fourth book of very similar themes I've read, and there are just better alternatives out there that do deserve your time.

[William Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absorbing and intimate journey - unflinchingly, yet sensitively told.

"The Maiden of Florence" is way outside my normal orbit, but I'm glad I bought it - I'd heard good things about it. The book tells the story of an orphan, Giulia, taken from the orphanage so that the prince of Florence may prove his virility, ahead of a political marriage into the Medici family. The selection process, the test itself, and the proving of the test have a solid basis in history, as attested by surviving correspondence. What follows, from when Giulia gives birth, surrenders her child, in return for a generous dowry and a husband thrown in, that future life is plausible conjecture, and makes up perhaps the final two-thirds of the book.

There is no shying away from the nature of Giulia's "service". There are harrowing, callous scenes in there - you may feel tears of anger and of pity - alongside moments of joy and times of tragedy and betrayal. All these inevitably follow, as the consequences of Giulia's involuntary actions - and the unexpected price she pays - unfold throughout her life. Yet there is closure, as Giulia finds answers to the mysteries of her origin - perhaps more answers than she might wish - but which make the journey with Giulia a rounded and satisfying whole.

[Mila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and how it was based on real events, but I found in the narrative jumps hard to follow who everyone was. Nevertheless it was a good read. The female experience ever a favourite of mine to explore.

[Paws with a Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the story of Giulia, an orphan, a virgin, in 1584 Venice, chosen to test the virility of The Prince of Mantua prior to his marriage to Eleanor de Medici.

Based on historical events with fictional imaginings to fill the gaps, the writing brings to life a period of history that is made for historical fiction, but one that hasn’t featured in any of the books I’ve read. Mezzacappa built a character led novel, with the period reflected more in the feelings and behaviours of those living in it rather than relying on descriptions of the settings.

Told largely from the perspective of Giulia, as we follow her through this experience and through her life that follows…whilst the initial subject matter is unpleasant, it is sensitively written (although I felt it a little unnecessarily graphic at times). It delicately conveys the fear, the sadness, the trauma, and the hope that Giulia carries with her throughout the novel.

The characters were brilliantly and vividly imagined, the hateful characters as much as those you take to your heart. I adored the sections from Giulianos perspective, these were perhaps the highlight of the novel for me and both his character and sections of the novel gave the perfect contrast and balance and made for a beautifully and intelligently written novel.

Thank you so much to Fairlight Books for an advanced proof of this book, I loved reading it and highly recommend!!!

[Sarah Burton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good historical novel, based on the true story of a Giulia, an orphan taken from an orphanage to prove the virility of Vincenzo Gonzago, Katherine Mezzacappa gives a voice to Giulia. The story is told by both Giulia and the husband she marries after the event, Giulia tells it a letter to the mother she never knew.

A fascinating story, well researched but also enhanced by the authors writing.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me to read The Maiden of Florence.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Maiden of Florence was such an interesting read. It is a fictional account of a real girl, Giulia, an orphan who was offered up as a maiden for the Prince of Mantua to prove his virility. The book reads like a memoir, and is written mostly from the point of view of Giulia, with one part written from the POV of Giuliano. I really liked having two different voices in the narrative, and I think having Giuliano's perspective made it a bit lighter. Giulia's chapters are brutally honest about her trials and her harsh reality of being born a woman in Medici Florence. I was shocked when I reached the end to find the author's Historial Note saying that a good portion of the book was based on actual documents, including some of the quotes. Despite Giulia's despicable treatment by her "betters", her story is one of hope and resilience. If you're a historical fiction reader, or have an interest in 16th century Florence/Venice, I would definitely recommend this.

Thank you to NetGalley and Fairlight Books for the ARC!

[historic_chronicles · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Genevieve · Rating 4 out of 5]

at first I wasn't too sure about this book, and up to around 30% of the way through I found it quite hard to read due to the tough subject matter. but once I got past all of that I found myself becoming more and more intrigued by the story- and I'll never say no to medieval Italy!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.

[máire O'Reilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

gripping enjoyable read

[L'amicadeilibri♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ci sono romanzi che si limitano a raccontare una storia, e ce ne sono altri che lasciano un segno, incidendo nell’anima del lettore come una lama affilata. La vergine di Firenze di Katherine Mezzacappa appartiene senza dubbio alla seconda categoria. 
Questo romanzo non è solo un viaggio nelle strade affollate e nelle stanze chiuse della Firenze rinascimentale, ma anche un’immersione nell’animo umano, un confronto brutale con il potere patriarcale e con le sue implicazioni psicologiche e sociali. Una storia che ha davvero dell’incredibile e che fa tanta rabbia, ma proprio tanta soprattutto quando ti rendi conto che non puoi fare nulla per cambiare certe cose che sono davvero successe e che sono, senza dubbio, deplorevoli.
Giulia Albizzi è un’orfana, una ragazza bellissima che non possiede nulla se non il proprio corpo, visto dagli altri come una risorsa, una merce da scambiare. In un mondo dominato dagli uomini, il nome di Giulia conta meno della sua verginità, meno della sua capacità di "dimostrare" la virilità di un principe. 
Giulia è vittima di una società che le toglie ogni scelta, che la addestra, la umilia e la manipola per renderla funzionale a un progetto politico. Eppure, nelle pieghe del suo dolore, emerge una forza straordinaria. 
La vergine di Firenze è un romanzo che colpisce come un pugno nello stomaco, ma che lascia anche una traccia di luce.
Leggendolo non potrai fare miracoli, le cose accadute a queste donne, rimarranno tali per l’eternità, ma almeno, forse, proverai la mia stessa sensazione, quella di essere venuto a conoscenza di una storia, e in qualche modo, con questa condivisione, di averla supportata. Il miglior dono che possiamo fare alle storie del passato, alle tragedie piccole e grandi che hanno cambiato il nostro mondo, è quello di impararle a memoria, di farle nostre, di vivere e di ricordarle. 
Il ricordo è la più alta forma di rispetto.

Recensione completa sul blog.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say honestly that I did not enjoy the start of this book very much - but bear with it because by the end I was very invested! The beginning of the novel reads very factually about the unpleasant topic at the heart of the novel, namely the giving of a virgin orphan (Giulia) as a test to the prince of Mantua to prove his virility before he is married to Eleonora Medici. This is the historical fact around which the novel is based, but it makes for very hard reading initially - everything Giulia is put through is horrifying, even if likely to have happened. The novel really comes into its power though with the conclusion of this episode, where the fictional imagining takes life and sees Giulia married to Giuliano, a poor musician who is initially forced into taking her but quickly learns to see the good qualities of his new wife and to care for her. Reading from Giuliano’s point of view began to warm me to the characters. This doesn’t become a love story, however - the novel continues to show how the couple are still tied by forces outside of their control to that past event, and how they work to overcome it. It’s a very interesting and well written account of the times, and I do really enjoy reading about Renaissance Florence/Mantua/Venice.

My thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher, Fairlight Books, for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Felicity Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even more than historical fiction, I enjoy historical fiction that, as with The Maiden Of Florence, is based on actual events.

Expecting a story that was pretty much of a sameness to others that I have read set during this time and place in history {16th century Italy}, what I actually got was something quite different.

A bit more sexually detailed than I had expected; nothing too gratuitous though, as I'm sure was the author's intent, the minister Vinta's lecherous behaviour throughout the book and in particular during the early scenes left me feeling decidedly uncomfortable.

In fact this aspect of the novel proved to be really interesting as, whilst I have read many books in which the lengths to which the aristocracy/royalty would go to to prove the virginity of a bride were described, the notion of it being used to provide evidence of the groom's ability to, err, perform on his marriage bed/impregnate a woman was new to me.

Told mainly from Giulia's perspective. Her fear, her sadness, her trauma, her sacrifice, her love of her family, all beautifully depicted and painfully palpable. In perfect contrast, equally enjoyable are the portions of the story given over to Giuliano, the poor musician who becomes her husband and saviour ... just as in many ways she becomes his. Bravo! These are such intelligently written characters that will stay with me for a long, long while.

Recounted with a great and yet human insight into Renaissance Italy. The author perfectly captures what I imagine it was to be a woman and especially a woman such as Giulia; living life by the constraints of gender, society and religion, living life dominated by not just powerful men but men in general. Yes, in many ways her's is a stark story BUT it is also a story of resilience, of achievement, of triumph and, perhaps most of all, hope.

Definitely an author to keep a look out for, this has to be one on my favourite reads of 2024.

Copyright ... Felicity Grace Terry @ Pen and Paper
Disclaimer ... One of several bloggers participating in the Blog Tour of this book. Agree or disagree with me, all opinions are my own. No financial compensation was asked for nor given. Threats of violence towards my favourite teddy bear went unheeded as did promises of chocolate.

[Krystina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've flown through this book, it's been a beautiful one to read. Not only because the cover is absolutely gorgeous, I love the filigree pattern running down it, it perfectly fits the setting of the book. But also because of the way the author writes, I've found it despite the subject matter at times absolutely beautifully worded. We get the book from the point of view of Giulia years after all of this sexual abuse happens when she is a much older woman on the brink of menopause, She is writing as if to her mother whom she has never known and you can feel her need to get all of the trauma and distress she felt and clearly still carries off her chest in this writing. Throughout the beginning of the book, it's so distressing to read how little she understands of being loved, she knows that she's never really had that love and affection from anyone and often comments that "I knew they had no love for me" and it just made me want to hug her if I'm honest, I just wanted her to get to have a husband that will love and care for her.
I love historical fiction and I adore them even more when they are rooted in historical fact, so I loved having the historical note at the back giving me that history and a bibliography to explore (because I do love adding to my tbr!).
I have to say one of my favourite parts of the book was the little quotes at the beginning of each chapter, i loved trying to read the Italian out loud and having the translation so I knew what I was trying to say.
I definitely want to read more historical fiction by Katherine Mazzacappa, she has a brilliant way of doing it.

[Sunflowerpublishing · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY REVIEW:
The story starts at the end.
‘ Those events are almost thirty years old but I remember them as if they happened thirty days ago, though I have tried to bury the memories. Nearly every player in that story is dead. It is only now that what happened can be told me, not by the men -and women – who decided my fate.’

Immediately, there is a hook to draw us into the story. A raw yet clear style sets the tone for what is to unfold and I don’t think any reader could fail to engage with Giulia as her story is played out in the form of a harrowing memoir while skillfully navigating themes of beauty, sexuality, sacrifice, and maternal love within the rich tapestry of Renaissance Italy. The events and experiences from Giulia’s life are recounted by the author with factual and detailed narration, offering the reader a window into the very moment that is being described. She captures the essence of what it means to navigate life as a woman in a society dominated by powerful men, portraying the protagonist's journey toward finding dignity and self-esteem amidst the complexities of her environment.

This captivating story offers a fascinating glimpse into the court of a royal fiefdom in Renaissance Italy. Rich descriptions and intricate details paint a vivid picture of the setting. The Renaissance was a fervent period of European cultural, artistic, political and economic “rebirth” following the Middle Ages yet life for many people was grim For women especially, this era was characterized by strict gender roles, societal expectations, and legal constraints that shaped every aspect of their lives. Their experiences were influenced by factors such as class, race, and social status, further complicating their ability to navigate and assert themselves within their respective societies. For Giulia, her early life was one of abandonment, abstinence and cruelty, yet we feel that in recording the abuse, the suffering and the exploitation she suffered, her writing has almost a cathartic effect.
The writing is beautiful, sensuous and stark. Giulia is removed from one orphanage, the Innocenti to another, the Pietra.
‘I was taken to the Pietra without warning. I think I was about ten. This place was run by pious widows, laywomen, those who did not want to submit to covent discipline so much as to impose it. I looked up at a sheer wall. There was no pretty colonnade with those roundels of swaddled babies as there was at the Innocenti – only small barred windows. I heard the clatter of looms the moment a gnarled old lay sister opened the gate to us and smelled the bitter smell of silkworms being boiled to death to give up their precious thread.’

The novel achieves a level of authenticity and empathy that makes the historical period come alive. Readers are able to connect deeply with the protagonist's journey, experiencing her degradation, struggles and ultimate growth firsthand.
I will not provide any spoilers but the book is a #metoo true story so the reader knows that this will be about sexual abuse and assault. This was, after all a society where women's bodies were objectified and exploited. Women were only considered in terms of their physical attributes and used as commodities but in Giula’s story, we get a perspective that serves to empower and validate the experiences of women, highlighting the importance of recognizing and honoring their humanity beyond superficial appearances or societal expectations. This comes from love.
As part of the contract for her virginity, Guilia is promised a husband. She is wedded to a man she does not know. Giuliano, a court musician writes his own account of their new life together.

‘ I saw what they had done. The matron, the pious women at the Pietra those prelates who steepled their fingers and talked of a great good. Greater men than I would not call Giulia chaste yet her innocence was intact. She was not a lady – she did not know how – nor nun nor whore. She was wax in my hands for me to mould and shape – and keep from the flames.’

Another important theme in the story is faith. Religious belief was integral to everyday life. It was impossible to separate religion from political authority, international finance, art, and learning. No matter the hardships, Giulia suffers, she tells us that,
‘I went to confession regularly, at least once a month. I knelt and crossed myself and told the shadowy form listening to me through the grille. I heard the words, “God bless you, daughter, for I have prayed for you always, that your life might be a happy one after all you have suffered.’”
It is an accomplished and gripping story with depth. It is a dark exploration of inhumanity against women which was acceptable in that period.

Why I recommend this book
Giulia's journey is a powerful exploration of resilience and determination in the face of overwhelming adversity. Despite the significant ordeals and obstacles she encounters, her struggle to carve out a meaningful life resonates deeply with readers. Her story highlights the universal human desire for purpose and fulfilment, even in the most difficult circumstances.
it is meticulously crafted, both in terms of research and imagination.

The hallmark of a great historical fiction novel is its capacity to transport readers to a different time and place, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of that era through the eyes of the protagonist. The Maiden of Florence is a historical fiction novel that truly excels in its ability to immerse readers in the world of its main character. It is profound and multifaceted. By acknowledging the complexities, challenges and indignities faced by women in the past, who might have been overlooked in traditional narratives, we can honour their experiences. The success of the book is due to the paradox of highlighting Giulia’s achievements and triumphs but also shedding light on the harsh realities and humiliation she endured to provide a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of history.
It is emotionally compelling, a story that not only informs and educates but also leaves a lasting impact.

[Geraldine Comiskey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is difficult to categorise this beautiful piece of writing. Historical biography, poetic literature, love story, family tragedy...it tugs at the emotions, makes you gasp with shock, weep for the heroine and feel an intense warmth and admiration for her brave husband. I won't spoil it by saying too much about the plot save to say that it's based on the true story of a young impoverished girl in Renaissance Italy, pimped by powerful men, raped and deprived of her child. The story is all the more terrifying given that this practice is still common in many parts of the world - and, beneath our European veneer of civilisation the beasts of misogyny and power-lust still rear their ugly heads. It's also, surprisingly, a heartwarming, inspiring story about resilient women in a man's world. A lot of research has clearly gone into this and the use of old Italian phrases (with their translations) at the beginnings of chapters will delight anyone who has a passion for linguistics or etymology. It will make you want to visit Florence and Venice.

[Christine · Rating 1 out of 5]

A big disappointment! Although the novel started well with interesting descriptions of life in orphenage, the tone abruptly changed. About a third of the book is dedicated to the intimate humiliation of Giula's body. I felt like a voyeur (I skipped many passages as I could not stand it any longer): the overdetailed descriptions of intimate examinations again and again, the sexual acts endured by this poor girl were not necessary in this detailed and repetitive form. The rest of the novel did not appeal to me at all as I lost total interest in the storyline and characters. I finished the book though only because I wanted to write an honest review. It did not matter who was narrating in each chapter (different narrator for each chapter). I was always wondering what was the aim of it at all .
I received a digital copy of the novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.

[Shannon Featherston · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this book fell very flat for me. I dnfed after I was halfway through because the narrative simply did not hold up farther than the author describing the events surrounding Giulia Albizzi rather than breathing life into what could be a very compelling story. The author uses Giulia’s point of view to tell the story, but much of the story is left limited to what is done to Giulia rather than breathing any sort of humanity into this character. More than that though, because Giulia has limited life experience outside of her sheltered existence, readers are left out of the wider context of what was happening politically that lead to the book’s circumstances. A third person omniscient POV would have removed these narrative boundaries which instead cause readers to have everything explained at them in the way that feels like a rushed plot dump. I likely would not recommend this book. 1/5

[Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Maiden of Florence by Katherine Mezzacappa is an absolutely stunning work of literature set in an era that I knew little about but am now absolutely invested

The first thing to note is that Katherine Mezzacappa writes beautifully, her writing style is authentic and her research clearly extensive. I am a huge fan of historical fiction and I was really glad to get my teeth into a new historical genre. This is in no way a quick read and that makes it even better, so very fulfilling!

I will certainly be re-reading and looking for more frrom Katherine Mezzacappa!

Thank you to Netgalley, Fairlight Books and the Author for this incredible ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

[julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I look forward to reading historical novels based on true events that have been meticulously researched: and this is one of those books. Some scenes may be distressing to read, the writing style is often difficult, but if a reader perseveres with this one, then this is a rich account of a true historical event, and one which I am glad I learnt about from reading this book.
It wasn’t a book that I could sit down with and read quickly and felt it is better little and often, as I would read a non fiction book, but I would recommend for readers that enjoy detailed, well researched books of this genre. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the advance review copy

[Jessica Lees · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book! I read a lot of historical fiction and I have a particular interest in 15-1600s history. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen this unique a premise in this genre! Reminiscent of Sarah Dunant, I loved the personalized yet completely time-logical way of speaking from the main character as we weave through her life. Giuliano…what a guy! It made me so happy to see their marriage.
This poignant tale of what a woman’s body means in the hands of men, and the deeper thread of power and sexuality, has strong ties to modern issues.

Thank you NetGalley! A must read for hist fic friends

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written book, shining a light on an incredible historical story. The historical information seems well researched and the continuation of the story in fiction works really well. The characters are well rounded, and I was desperate to get through the story to find the twists.