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Light in the Shadows
The discovery of a lost Caravaggio painting yields centuries of deadly secrets in this pulse-pounding novel of historical intrigue and modern-day suspense?
In seventeenth-century Rome, an arrogant and reckless artist named Caravaggio drinks and brawls his way through his violent, insatiable life, all while painting some of the world’s greatest religious works of art. But it is his bitter feud with Giovanni Roero, a brutal knight in the Maltese Order of St. John, that is his fatal error.
Now, in the village of Monte Piccolo, a priest claims to have discovered a lost painting by the famed artist in the storage room of an orphanage. Retired professor A. R. Richman believes it’s a delusional dream. But Lucia, a visiting art student, convinces him otherwise and recruits her best friend, Moto, to join in the quest. They think The Judas Kiss is worth investigating. But tracing its provenance back four hundred years could prove to be just as treacherous as the master’s final days.
Richman, Lucia, and Moto begin chasing the mystery, uncovering a blood feud hidden for years that has now spilled into the twenty-first century. As they follow where it leads—down a trail of murder, betrayal, and vengeance—they find a secret history that someone will kill to keep buried.
In seventeenth-century Rome, an arrogant and reckless artist named Caravaggio drinks and brawls his way through his violent, insatiable life, all while painting some of the world’s greatest religious works of art. But it is his bitter feud with Giovanni Roero, a brutal knight in the Maltese Order of St. John, that is his fatal error.
Now, in the village of Monte Piccolo, a priest claims to have discovered a lost painting by the famed artist in the storage room of an orphanage. Retired professor A. R. Richman believes it’s a delusional dream. But Lucia, a visiting art student, convinces him otherwise and recruits her best friend, Moto, to join in the quest. They think The Judas Kiss is worth investigating. But tracing its provenance back four hundred years could prove to be just as treacherous as the master’s final days.
Richman, Lucia, and Moto begin chasing the mystery, uncovering a blood feud hidden for years that has now spilled into the twenty-first century. As they follow where it leads—down a trail of murder, betrayal, and vengeance—they find a secret history that someone will kill to keep buried.
457 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2019
493 people are currently reading
1793 people want to read
About the author
Linda Lafferty
10 books297 followersThe daughter of a naval commander, Linda Lafferty attended fourteen different schools growing up, ultimately graduating from the University of Colorado with a master's degree and a PhD in education. Her peripatetic childhood nourished a lifelong love of travel, and she studied abroad in England, France, Mexico, and Spain. Her uncle introduced her to the sport of polo when she was just ten years old, and she enjoys playing to this day. She also competed on the Lancaster University Riding Team in England in stadium jumping, cross country, and dressage. A veteran school educator, she is the author of The Bloodletter's Daughter and The Drowning Guard. She lives in Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 15, 2019
I really enjoyed the historical parts about Caravaggio, the modern day mystery not so much.
June 8, 2019
Well the author is certainly no Dan Brown. This is a rather pale imitation of the daVinci Code, made even more dire by the author littering the text with Italian dialogue followed by a translation. Now I’m not a fan of subtitles in film, but I can acknowledge that there they have a place; I see no value whatsoever in putting a conversation into a language other than the main body of text (in this edition, English), then translating it back into the main language again (unless of course it was just to boost the word count) - one already knows the book is set in Italy. One already knows which characters are native Italians and which aren’t. It does not take great leaps in imagination to know that when two Italians are speaking to each other, it Italy, there’s a fair chance the conversation will be in their mother tongue. Even more ridiculous was one section when the Italian was translated into a Sicilian dialect (to show us the mafia were conversing amongst themselves - as if anyone not reading the book in an Italian edition would know the difference!) 🙄
As far as the plot goes, other reviewers have commented on the cartoonish characters, and rather flat ending. In short, don’t waste your cash or time - thank god I only wasted my time, having got it for free on kindle first reads.
As far as the plot goes, other reviewers have commented on the cartoonish characters, and rather flat ending. In short, don’t waste your cash or time - thank god I only wasted my time, having got it for free on kindle first reads.
July 20, 2020
The life and times of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio are almost painstakingly brought to the reader's attention in this historical fiction. Unfortunately, the path to delving into Caravaggio's life is done so via a subplot that takes place in today's Italy. The subplot involves the discovery of a "lost" painting of Caravaggio and the ensuing conspiracy to hide it from certain authorities. The bouncing back and forth between present day and 16th century Rome and surrounding city-states became a little frustrating. However, the saving grace was the detail in which Caravaggio and his patrons were described. Few books of fiction have successfully compelled me to do extra research on the subject of Italian Baroque and Renaissance painters as this one, and I found Caravaggio to be an incredible genius tormented by his own physical and mental temperaments.
I choose to base my rating solely on the novel that dealt with Caravaggio's life as he neared its end in July of 1610.
I choose to base my rating solely on the novel that dealt with Caravaggio's life as he neared its end in July of 1610.
June 5, 2019
4 stars
This book is a wonderful historical account of not only Caravaggio's life and imagined demise, but a contemporary action-filled drama about the discovery of a previously unknown painting by him.
Lucia and Professor Richman get off to a somewhat rocky start in their relationship, but are destined to become fast friends. Add the charming Moto into the mix and we have three very likable characters to star in this egaging novel. I have to admit that I did not care for Caravaggio. Then I read the historical notes at the end of the book and discovered that that was the way people spoke early in the 17th Century. It is amazing that such a dissolute character could be such a genius when it came to painting. (I googled him to view some of his work.)
The authors certainly did their research before writing this novel. Caravaggio was a figure to whom I had never given much thought before.
This book is very well written. The sentences flow easily and the story moves along nicely. Getting to know the characters was enjoyable. I truly enjoyed reading the book and will certainly look for other works by Linda Lafferty and Andy Stone.
I want to thank NetGalley and Lake Union Press for forwarding to me a copy of of this book for me to read, enjoy and review.
This book is a wonderful historical account of not only Caravaggio's life and imagined demise, but a contemporary action-filled drama about the discovery of a previously unknown painting by him.
Lucia and Professor Richman get off to a somewhat rocky start in their relationship, but are destined to become fast friends. Add the charming Moto into the mix and we have three very likable characters to star in this egaging novel. I have to admit that I did not care for Caravaggio. Then I read the historical notes at the end of the book and discovered that that was the way people spoke early in the 17th Century. It is amazing that such a dissolute character could be such a genius when it came to painting. (I googled him to view some of his work.)
The authors certainly did their research before writing this novel. Caravaggio was a figure to whom I had never given much thought before.
This book is very well written. The sentences flow easily and the story moves along nicely. Getting to know the characters was enjoyable. I truly enjoyed reading the book and will certainly look for other works by Linda Lafferty and Andy Stone.
I want to thank NetGalley and Lake Union Press for forwarding to me a copy of of this book for me to read, enjoy and review.
May 10, 2020
Naive and rather insignificant. The idea to combine two story lines, one in the early 1600s, the other in early 21st century, leads to a rather predictable outcome. The pen/camera follows Caravaggio in his adventures and dealings in Rome, occasionally in the company of other historical figures. The modern counterpart is much less interesting and probably should be a different book altogether (if it had to be published, that is). The whole thing is done rather superficially and it felt like reading a script of a mediocre film that went straight into video/DVD stores after its second week in theatres.
June 4, 2019
Once started I couldn't put it down. Almost 2 stories in one book. The life of Caravaggio in the 17th century and a modern day adventure. Worth reading for sure.
June 3, 2019
A massive amount of work has gone into writing this book. By these extremely talented authors. A really well written book.
May 21, 2019
Awful! The book switches between the 1600's and the present time.
The chapters spent in the 1600 's are bearable , the chapters spent in modern times are totally unbelievable. The characters are not well drawn and the situations they find themselves in ridiculous.
I was disappointed with this book.
The chapters spent in the 1600 's are bearable , the chapters spent in modern times are totally unbelievable. The characters are not well drawn and the situations they find themselves in ridiculous.
I was disappointed with this book.
July 7, 2019
“Nec spe. Nec metu.” “Without hope. Without fear.”
This is a fantastic adventure to track down a beautiful painting that has been lost for centuries. It is also an historical fiction connecting present day Italy to the ancient city of Roma in the early 1600’s.
Trying to track down and verify the painting “The Judas Kiss” the true name of the painting (The Taking Of Christ) by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, is not a easy job for our three modern day researchers and adventurers. They are kidnapped, held as hostages, almost killed numerous times. They travel all over Italy trying to find this painting and verify it is a true Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, and the whole time they are followed and their lives are in grave danger. There are dark unknown forces who will stop at nothing to keep the research group from getting to close to the truth.
This story is also a very moving love story between Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio and a woman of the night named Lena. They find each other on the streets of Roma. He first uses her as a model for his paintings, a muse for his ideas and then the become lovers. Caravaggio is a scoundrel, a womanizer, has a quick temper, quicker to get very angry, he takes offense over the littlest things, he is also a murderer, and a classic painter whose gifts must come from a higher calling. He is talented beyond words, his paintings are master pieces. But because of all his bad behavior he is kicked out of Roma with a Papal warrant on his head for murder. He must flee Roma with the help of close family friends and some people inside the Catholic Church. He goes to different cities in Italy, but the Papal law is always right behind him. He finds himself on Malta, with The Knights Of Malta. Summoned to become the artist in residence for the Grand Master. But things do not go smooth there either. When he was in Roma he made a deadly enemy, who is now on Malta too. This does not bode well for either man.
There is fascinating backstories for all of the characters. There are twists and turns throughout the book that makes you want to keep reading way past bedtime. I love that the story jumps back and forth between present day Italy and Italy in the 1600’s, it’s a very easy and smooth transition. This was a fascinating book about how one piece of precious art can effect and touch so many lives. I enjoyed this book very much. I’ve read some of her other novels and they were amazing.
With a very easy Wikipedia search, I found that this painting is in the National Gallery Of Ireland, in Dublin. The article is very informative and has other references for this painting and its history. If you go to https://www.nationalgallery.ie/art-an..., there is more history and some other stories about how this Italian masterpiece ended up in a dinning hall in Dublin. Here is that story too, https://www.nationalgallery.ie/carava....
This is a fantastic adventure to track down a beautiful painting that has been lost for centuries. It is also an historical fiction connecting present day Italy to the ancient city of Roma in the early 1600’s.
Trying to track down and verify the painting “The Judas Kiss” the true name of the painting (The Taking Of Christ) by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, is not a easy job for our three modern day researchers and adventurers. They are kidnapped, held as hostages, almost killed numerous times. They travel all over Italy trying to find this painting and verify it is a true Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, and the whole time they are followed and their lives are in grave danger. There are dark unknown forces who will stop at nothing to keep the research group from getting to close to the truth.
This story is also a very moving love story between Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio and a woman of the night named Lena. They find each other on the streets of Roma. He first uses her as a model for his paintings, a muse for his ideas and then the become lovers. Caravaggio is a scoundrel, a womanizer, has a quick temper, quicker to get very angry, he takes offense over the littlest things, he is also a murderer, and a classic painter whose gifts must come from a higher calling. He is talented beyond words, his paintings are master pieces. But because of all his bad behavior he is kicked out of Roma with a Papal warrant on his head for murder. He must flee Roma with the help of close family friends and some people inside the Catholic Church. He goes to different cities in Italy, but the Papal law is always right behind him. He finds himself on Malta, with The Knights Of Malta. Summoned to become the artist in residence for the Grand Master. But things do not go smooth there either. When he was in Roma he made a deadly enemy, who is now on Malta too. This does not bode well for either man.
There is fascinating backstories for all of the characters. There are twists and turns throughout the book that makes you want to keep reading way past bedtime. I love that the story jumps back and forth between present day Italy and Italy in the 1600’s, it’s a very easy and smooth transition. This was a fascinating book about how one piece of precious art can effect and touch so many lives. I enjoyed this book very much. I’ve read some of her other novels and they were amazing.
With a very easy Wikipedia search, I found that this painting is in the National Gallery Of Ireland, in Dublin. The article is very informative and has other references for this painting and its history. If you go to https://www.nationalgallery.ie/art-an..., there is more history and some other stories about how this Italian masterpiece ended up in a dinning hall in Dublin. Here is that story too, https://www.nationalgallery.ie/carava....
July 9, 2019
I always find Linda Lafferty a hit or miss. I'm in love with some of her works like The House of Bathory and The Bloodletter's Daughter; her historical research is always impeccable but some novels I just can't get into and unfortunately Light in the Shadows, was a miss.
Light in the Shadows is a historical art mystery (I don't think I've found a historical fiction about art, that I've enjoyed, maybe someone could point me in the right direction?). The focus is around unique piece of art that might be one from the famous Michelangelo Caravaggio. Lafferty switches from past to present, typical of her style; in the past, the life of the disgruntled artist and in the present, a young girl, an aging professor and a homosexual local bent on discovering the paintings true origins.
I quite enjoyed the historical parts of the novel, Caravaggio is indeed the epitome of the tortured genies. At times it was difficult to follow due to similarities in Italian names at the beginning of the 17th century and the fact that I'm not familiar with Italian. However it still remains quite intriguing.
In contrast, the present parts; those which attempted to make it a murder mystery, I found dull and boring. Also the completely fictional characters in this plot setting are not realistic. This most difficult concept to swallow was a young woman and a very old man engaging in this dangerous mission together. Professor A. R. Richman is in his mid seventies and just trying to live out his lonely retirement studying art in Italy and although several times he declines to participate in the mystery of the lost painting, he is always swept back in and develops an almost paternal relationship with the young woman, Lucia. As a young woman, I couldn't imagine this situation at all! Nor why Richman wouldn't just curl up in an armchair and be done with it.
The "mystery" plot is also rather suspect. It begins with the standard "is it, or is it not a Caravaggio painting?" and should it be killed for . . . I'm fine with that plot, makes sense. But nope, have to throw in an order of disgruntled knights bent on revenging their founding member because of his ancient feud with Caravaggio . . . this was too weird for me.
All in all, I ranked it a 3/5 because it encouraged me to look up quite a bit about Caravaggio because he was such an intriguing character that I was unfamiliar with, and that the historical bits of the novel were well researched and entertaining. Light in the Shadows just really fell flat trying to be a modern day mystery with some oddly placed character relationships in a bizarre situation.
Light in the Shadows is a historical art mystery (I don't think I've found a historical fiction about art, that I've enjoyed, maybe someone could point me in the right direction?). The focus is around unique piece of art that might be one from the famous Michelangelo Caravaggio. Lafferty switches from past to present, typical of her style; in the past, the life of the disgruntled artist and in the present, a young girl, an aging professor and a homosexual local bent on discovering the paintings true origins.
I quite enjoyed the historical parts of the novel, Caravaggio is indeed the epitome of the tortured genies. At times it was difficult to follow due to similarities in Italian names at the beginning of the 17th century and the fact that I'm not familiar with Italian. However it still remains quite intriguing.
In contrast, the present parts; those which attempted to make it a murder mystery, I found dull and boring. Also the completely fictional characters in this plot setting are not realistic. This most difficult concept to swallow was a young woman and a very old man engaging in this dangerous mission together. Professor A. R. Richman is in his mid seventies and just trying to live out his lonely retirement studying art in Italy and although several times he declines to participate in the mystery of the lost painting, he is always swept back in and develops an almost paternal relationship with the young woman, Lucia. As a young woman, I couldn't imagine this situation at all! Nor why Richman wouldn't just curl up in an armchair and be done with it.
The "mystery" plot is also rather suspect. It begins with the standard "is it, or is it not a Caravaggio painting?" and should it be killed for . . . I'm fine with that plot, makes sense. But nope, have to throw in an order of disgruntled knights bent on revenging their founding member because of his ancient feud with Caravaggio . . . this was too weird for me.
All in all, I ranked it a 3/5 because it encouraged me to look up quite a bit about Caravaggio because he was such an intriguing character that I was unfamiliar with, and that the historical bits of the novel were well researched and entertaining. Light in the Shadows just really fell flat trying to be a modern day mystery with some oddly placed character relationships in a bizarre situation.
April 3, 2020
Ho iniziato con molte aspettative questo romanzo, ne avevo già letto un altro sulla storia romanzata del Caravaggio e mi affascinano la vita e le opere di questo artista maledetto.
E’ un lavoro svolto su due livelli, nel 1600 racconta le vicende del Caravaggio e nei giorni attuali le ricerche che uno studioso americano e una studentessa svolgono, su un dipinto ritrovato e che si crede possa essere attribuito al Merisi.
Molto più affascinante, a mio parere, la parte storica, con una panoramica su tutta la vita dell’artista, le sue fissazioni, ispirazioni e trasgressioni. Si vedono gli avvenimenti con l’occhio del pittore e si percepiscono i colpi di genio che hanno ispirato le varie opere. La vita del 1600 fra osterie, duelli e prostitute hanno forgiato l’animo del Merisi, rendendolo un attaccabrighe di primo ordine; sempre protetto dalla famiglia Colonna, ha avuto fin troppe opportunità per rimettersi sulla buona strada, ma l’oscurità che caratterizza il suo animo e i suoi dipinti è sempre pronta a rovinare tutto.
Si conosceranno quindi gli eventi che hanno scandito la sua vita, le amicizie, gli amori, le vendette e la sua incredibile capacità di rendere un dipinto così coinvolgente e vero.
La storia attuale vede il professor Richman, studioso d’arte e Lucia, una studentessa italoamericana, indagare su un dipinto ritrovato nell’orfanatrofio gestito da un vecchio conoscente di Lucia.
Questo quadro sembra essere un Caravaggio ma, durante, le ricerche, il quadro viene rubato e i personaggi entrano in una storia più grande di loro fra fanatici religiosi legati ai discendenti del più grande nemico del Merisi.
Richman è un uomo brillante ma riflessivo mentre Lucia ha l’impetuosità della sua giovane età, che la porta spesso nei guai. Ad aiutare i due ci sarà Moto, un giovane amico di Lucia che acquisterà sempre più importanza nel corso degli eventi.
La cosa che mi ha più stupito è l’evolversi della capacità di raccontare gli eventi e l’espressività della autrice. Inizialmente sembra catturare delle istantanee che rimarranno nella mente dell’artista e che lo spingeranno ad esprimere quell’orrore sulla tela, anche i dialoghi sono male strutturati, sia quelli della parte storica che quella attuale. Nel corso del libro poi tutto migliora, la storia prende piede e anche i dialoghi acquistano più struttura.
E’ un romanzo lungo e quindi molto esaustivo ed appassionante che sono sicura vi coinvolgerà e, cosa non da poco, aggiungerà un po’ di cultura artistica alle nostre conoscenze.
E’ un lavoro svolto su due livelli, nel 1600 racconta le vicende del Caravaggio e nei giorni attuali le ricerche che uno studioso americano e una studentessa svolgono, su un dipinto ritrovato e che si crede possa essere attribuito al Merisi.
Molto più affascinante, a mio parere, la parte storica, con una panoramica su tutta la vita dell’artista, le sue fissazioni, ispirazioni e trasgressioni. Si vedono gli avvenimenti con l’occhio del pittore e si percepiscono i colpi di genio che hanno ispirato le varie opere. La vita del 1600 fra osterie, duelli e prostitute hanno forgiato l’animo del Merisi, rendendolo un attaccabrighe di primo ordine; sempre protetto dalla famiglia Colonna, ha avuto fin troppe opportunità per rimettersi sulla buona strada, ma l’oscurità che caratterizza il suo animo e i suoi dipinti è sempre pronta a rovinare tutto.
Si conosceranno quindi gli eventi che hanno scandito la sua vita, le amicizie, gli amori, le vendette e la sua incredibile capacità di rendere un dipinto così coinvolgente e vero.
La storia attuale vede il professor Richman, studioso d’arte e Lucia, una studentessa italoamericana, indagare su un dipinto ritrovato nell’orfanatrofio gestito da un vecchio conoscente di Lucia.
Questo quadro sembra essere un Caravaggio ma, durante, le ricerche, il quadro viene rubato e i personaggi entrano in una storia più grande di loro fra fanatici religiosi legati ai discendenti del più grande nemico del Merisi.
Richman è un uomo brillante ma riflessivo mentre Lucia ha l’impetuosità della sua giovane età, che la porta spesso nei guai. Ad aiutare i due ci sarà Moto, un giovane amico di Lucia che acquisterà sempre più importanza nel corso degli eventi.
La cosa che mi ha più stupito è l’evolversi della capacità di raccontare gli eventi e l’espressività della autrice. Inizialmente sembra catturare delle istantanee che rimarranno nella mente dell’artista e che lo spingeranno ad esprimere quell’orrore sulla tela, anche i dialoghi sono male strutturati, sia quelli della parte storica che quella attuale. Nel corso del libro poi tutto migliora, la storia prende piede e anche i dialoghi acquistano più struttura.
E’ un romanzo lungo e quindi molto esaustivo ed appassionante che sono sicura vi coinvolgerà e, cosa non da poco, aggiungerà un po’ di cultura artistica alle nostre conoscenze.
July 26, 2024
Parlo un po' di italiano (I speak a little Italian), ma non ho bisogno di mostrarlo in ogni occasione (but I don't need to show it at every opportunity)...
I bought this book quite a while ago, because of my interest in Caravaggio, or Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio to show off more knowledge you don't need, and it has been on my TBR pile ever since. I was inspired to pick it up having visited two of Caravaggio paintings currently on display in the Ulster Museum.
The book is a historical fiction imagining of the artist's life alongside a modern narrative concerning a 'lost' Caravaggio, the historians searching for the truth, and the efforts (to destroy it?) of a religious sect dedicated to preserving the reputation of a Knight of St John, Giovanni Rodomonte Roero, the man whose assault may have led to Caravaggio's death. The historical story is entertaining enough, the modern story perhaps a little less so; it's all a bit Dan Brown, although I would consider Lafferty a technically better writer, but it gets confused plotwise and some crucial events see to happen 'off-screen' and the modern characters are little more than caricatures.
The most frustrating element is the author's decision to have characters in both stories to start sentences in Italian only to immediately offer the English translation.
“Al diavolo!” he shouted. To the devil!
“Stop, Cecco. Fermati!”
It is an unnecessary affectation which pulls you out of the story and ultimately becomes really frustrating. There is also the fact that the 'lost' Caravaggio "The Judas Kiss" seems to be one of the paintings I viewed in Belfast, "The Betrayal of Christ", which has been in the National Gallery of Ireland's collection (on loan) since the 1990s.
While I eventually couldn't wait to finish the book, it does have excellent descriptions of the paintings which could almost be extracted and used as narrative in an art book. And Caravaggio himself, a rogue, a brute, a murderer (although the death was the result of a duel), and a driven, tortured genius, is the one character who transcends the sometimes meandering storylines. I won't be rushing back but it has caused me to pull Andrew Graham-Dixon's biography of the artist off the shelf again.
I bought this book quite a while ago, because of my interest in Caravaggio, or Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio to show off more knowledge you don't need, and it has been on my TBR pile ever since. I was inspired to pick it up having visited two of Caravaggio paintings currently on display in the Ulster Museum.
The book is a historical fiction imagining of the artist's life alongside a modern narrative concerning a 'lost' Caravaggio, the historians searching for the truth, and the efforts (to destroy it?) of a religious sect dedicated to preserving the reputation of a Knight of St John, Giovanni Rodomonte Roero, the man whose assault may have led to Caravaggio's death. The historical story is entertaining enough, the modern story perhaps a little less so; it's all a bit Dan Brown, although I would consider Lafferty a technically better writer, but it gets confused plotwise and some crucial events see to happen 'off-screen' and the modern characters are little more than caricatures.
The most frustrating element is the author's decision to have characters in both stories to start sentences in Italian only to immediately offer the English translation.
“Al diavolo!” he shouted. To the devil!
“Stop, Cecco. Fermati!”
It is an unnecessary affectation which pulls you out of the story and ultimately becomes really frustrating. There is also the fact that the 'lost' Caravaggio "The Judas Kiss" seems to be one of the paintings I viewed in Belfast, "The Betrayal of Christ", which has been in the National Gallery of Ireland's collection (on loan) since the 1990s.
While I eventually couldn't wait to finish the book, it does have excellent descriptions of the paintings which could almost be extracted and used as narrative in an art book. And Caravaggio himself, a rogue, a brute, a murderer (although the death was the result of a duel), and a driven, tortured genius, is the one character who transcends the sometimes meandering storylines. I won't be rushing back but it has caused me to pull Andrew Graham-Dixon's biography of the artist off the shelf again.
June 24, 2019
Again, I’ve struggled with how many stars. I settled on 3.5 but because half stars not an option, I upped it to 4*
I finished this book last week but life has been busy and hectic and I wanted to think about it a little before decided on a rating.
On one hand, the story grabbed me right away. I really enjoy historical fiction about famous artists. Years ago I happened to be fortunate enough to see a Caravaggio and the darkness and style intrigued me. I did see a PBS show about him once too. Years ago, reading “Girl With a Pearl Earring” caused me to love this genre. I thoroughly liked reading “The Passion of Artemesia” and was glad to see her mentioned in this book. When I read this kind of book I’m constantly going to internet to see the picture being mentioned and this book was no different. Most times I found this book a page turner.
On the negative side – I felt it could have used some editing, did not have to be this long. The current day ‘mystery’ was not as interesting and seemed to drag a bit. My first thoughts upon starting this book were “The DaVinci Code” and Dan Brown. However, that did not live up to my hopes. What really annoyed me, however, was the constant use of Italian and then the translation of the sentence or phrase after that. It seemed to bog down the story also. I do not speak Italian but most times I was able to figure out easily what was said. Yes, we are in Italy with Italians – did this have to be pointed out to us so often?
Bottom line is that I did enjoy the time I spent in Italy and learning more about Caravaggio and the speculation of what happened to him. He certainly was a character!
I’d like to thank the publisher, Lake Union Publishing, as well as Net Galley for the opportunity to read this enjoyable and interesting new novel.
I finished this book last week but life has been busy and hectic and I wanted to think about it a little before decided on a rating.
On one hand, the story grabbed me right away. I really enjoy historical fiction about famous artists. Years ago I happened to be fortunate enough to see a Caravaggio and the darkness and style intrigued me. I did see a PBS show about him once too. Years ago, reading “Girl With a Pearl Earring” caused me to love this genre. I thoroughly liked reading “The Passion of Artemesia” and was glad to see her mentioned in this book. When I read this kind of book I’m constantly going to internet to see the picture being mentioned and this book was no different. Most times I found this book a page turner.
On the negative side – I felt it could have used some editing, did not have to be this long. The current day ‘mystery’ was not as interesting and seemed to drag a bit. My first thoughts upon starting this book were “The DaVinci Code” and Dan Brown. However, that did not live up to my hopes. What really annoyed me, however, was the constant use of Italian and then the translation of the sentence or phrase after that. It seemed to bog down the story also. I do not speak Italian but most times I was able to figure out easily what was said. Yes, we are in Italy with Italians – did this have to be pointed out to us so often?
Bottom line is that I did enjoy the time I spent in Italy and learning more about Caravaggio and the speculation of what happened to him. He certainly was a character!
I’d like to thank the publisher, Lake Union Publishing, as well as Net Galley for the opportunity to read this enjoyable and interesting new novel.
June 25, 2019
So this was almost two novels in one.
In the current time, Lucia -- an American grad student, and Professor Richman, a retired art historian are paired up to work to a project as they attend a seminar on Italian art. Lucia is aware of an old family friend who claims to have a Caravaggio and wants to sell it to benefit the orphanage he runs. They visit him and, while there's certainly something intriguing about the painting, they're not convinced it is. But they are intrigued, and when they get caught up in murder and kidnapping, they begin to think there might be something more going on.
The other story is the story of Caravaggio and his fights and feuds as he lives and works in Rome in the early 1600s. A genius painter he may have been, but he was also a brawler who took easy offense to even the most mild of criticisms and, as a result, find himself continually in hot water and having to be rescued by various patrons who he repays in his art.
There's lots of reference throughout to various of Caravaggio works as the modern characters research his life to try to figure out if the painting might be genuine. It isn't a bad idea to look them up as you read their descriptions.
At times some of the plot points are resolved in sort of 'out of the blue' ways, almost to the point where you wonder if you missed something. But, on the whole, it was an enjoyable read and rather educational as well. It is available in Kindle Unlimited and also, for now, available in Prime Reading.
In the current time, Lucia -- an American grad student, and Professor Richman, a retired art historian are paired up to work to a project as they attend a seminar on Italian art. Lucia is aware of an old family friend who claims to have a Caravaggio and wants to sell it to benefit the orphanage he runs. They visit him and, while there's certainly something intriguing about the painting, they're not convinced it is. But they are intrigued, and when they get caught up in murder and kidnapping, they begin to think there might be something more going on.
The other story is the story of Caravaggio and his fights and feuds as he lives and works in Rome in the early 1600s. A genius painter he may have been, but he was also a brawler who took easy offense to even the most mild of criticisms and, as a result, find himself continually in hot water and having to be rescued by various patrons who he repays in his art.
There's lots of reference throughout to various of Caravaggio works as the modern characters research his life to try to figure out if the painting might be genuine. It isn't a bad idea to look them up as you read their descriptions.
At times some of the plot points are resolved in sort of 'out of the blue' ways, almost to the point where you wonder if you missed something. But, on the whole, it was an enjoyable read and rather educational as well. It is available in Kindle Unlimited and also, for now, available in Prime Reading.
June 13, 2019
The discovery of a lost Caravaggio painting stirs up a storm in modern day with some historical intrigue thrown in.
A priest discovers a painting he believes to be a Caravaggio. Before he can have it authenticated he is murdered.
His niece and an American professor are kidnapped, rescued and determined to discover where the painting went and why people are willing to kill for it. Will his niece discover the truth about their relationship? Why was she shipped off to America as a child? And who really is her bestfriend?
Back in 1600s Caravaggio is delighting and infuriating Rome with his paintings. A genius, who doesn't always paint what's requested as they'd like it.
Caravaggio has a temper and makes enemies including nobility and a Knight of Malta. Will these enemies be his undoing? What really happened to him when he disappeared from history?
I loved this book, it was fast paced, entertaining and insightful! I had no idea who Caravaggio was before I read this and since reading I've got an urge to view his paintings and learn more about his life.
A priest discovers a painting he believes to be a Caravaggio. Before he can have it authenticated he is murdered.
His niece and an American professor are kidnapped, rescued and determined to discover where the painting went and why people are willing to kill for it. Will his niece discover the truth about their relationship? Why was she shipped off to America as a child? And who really is her bestfriend?
Back in 1600s Caravaggio is delighting and infuriating Rome with his paintings. A genius, who doesn't always paint what's requested as they'd like it.
Caravaggio has a temper and makes enemies including nobility and a Knight of Malta. Will these enemies be his undoing? What really happened to him when he disappeared from history?
I loved this book, it was fast paced, entertaining and insightful! I had no idea who Caravaggio was before I read this and since reading I've got an urge to view his paintings and learn more about his life.
July 26, 2019
*Goodreads Giveaway*
This was an OK read. I really enjoyed the sections of the book that followed Caravaggio during his lifetime, and would have preferred the book to remain entirely in this setting. The characters were vibrant, and the historical setting well-conveyed. The plot had some suspense, and i was interested to know what would happen next. Really, I would have enjoyed this as a novel all on its own. Unfortunately, the "modern day" half of the book was a letdown. The characters were bland and under-developed, the plot was dull, and the secrets/surprises were not surprising at all. The ending seemed hastily written, and really didn't feature any sort of resolution.
This was a fine summer read, but I am glad I didn't have to pay for the book. It seems the author is writing another book focusing on Artemesia Gentileschi. I'll look into it and, if the setting stays contemporary with Artemesia (with no modern-day diversions), I may read it. I really did enjoy the historic sections of this book.
This was an OK read. I really enjoyed the sections of the book that followed Caravaggio during his lifetime, and would have preferred the book to remain entirely in this setting. The characters were vibrant, and the historical setting well-conveyed. The plot had some suspense, and i was interested to know what would happen next. Really, I would have enjoyed this as a novel all on its own. Unfortunately, the "modern day" half of the book was a letdown. The characters were bland and under-developed, the plot was dull, and the secrets/surprises were not surprising at all. The ending seemed hastily written, and really didn't feature any sort of resolution.
This was a fine summer read, but I am glad I didn't have to pay for the book. It seems the author is writing another book focusing on Artemesia Gentileschi. I'll look into it and, if the setting stays contemporary with Artemesia (with no modern-day diversions), I may read it. I really did enjoy the historic sections of this book.
August 30, 2019
Major diasappointment
I usually confine my reading addiction to female mystery writers. On the recommendation of a friend, however, I read the fascinating historically based account of "The Blood Latter's Daughter," & have been thereafter developed a new addiction for well written, fairly accurately representative historical novels, including almost all of Lafferty's most excellent books.
Until this one. I was very disappointed to find her clear, concise, historical representation of the times so very compromised. Rather than the even flow of the novel, the story leapfrogged chapter over chapter between the 1600 artistic Italian times, and modern day "adventure-mystery" that is at best mediocre, and clearly the writing style of another author. If the leapfrogging was consistent, it would at least allow the reader to anticipate the next next leap, but, no. The old and new also switch back and forth quickly in many areas in an attempt to force justification of the modern story point. I really don't recommend this book.
I usually confine my reading addiction to female mystery writers. On the recommendation of a friend, however, I read the fascinating historically based account of "The Blood Latter's Daughter," & have been thereafter developed a new addiction for well written, fairly accurately representative historical novels, including almost all of Lafferty's most excellent books.
Until this one. I was very disappointed to find her clear, concise, historical representation of the times so very compromised. Rather than the even flow of the novel, the story leapfrogged chapter over chapter between the 1600 artistic Italian times, and modern day "adventure-mystery" that is at best mediocre, and clearly the writing style of another author. If the leapfrogging was consistent, it would at least allow the reader to anticipate the next next leap, but, no. The old and new also switch back and forth quickly in many areas in an attempt to force justification of the modern story point. I really don't recommend this book.
June 24, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley.com for giving me a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
This book goes back and forth in time between 16th and 17th century Italy and the modern day. I found the parts of the book that dealt with Caravaggio's life and art very interesting. They were really the best part of the book.
The modern day segments read like Dan Brown Lite. It wasn't terrible, but it was not nearly as interesting as rest of the book. The Italian and Sicilian dialogue scattered throughout the modern sections were distracting and unnecessary.
I was originally drawn to this book because I love Caravaggio's art, perhaps this is coloring my perception of the modern day portions. I would recommend this book to art history geeks like myself, and possibly for Dan Brown fans.
This book goes back and forth in time between 16th and 17th century Italy and the modern day. I found the parts of the book that dealt with Caravaggio's life and art very interesting. They were really the best part of the book.
The modern day segments read like Dan Brown Lite. It wasn't terrible, but it was not nearly as interesting as rest of the book. The Italian and Sicilian dialogue scattered throughout the modern sections were distracting and unnecessary.
I was originally drawn to this book because I love Caravaggio's art, perhaps this is coloring my perception of the modern day portions. I would recommend this book to art history geeks like myself, and possibly for Dan Brown fans.
August 3, 2019
Enter into the turbulent and raucous world of Michelangelo Caravaggio in 1577. The language of the taverns is "Slang. Argot. Blunt and crude and sometimes overwhelmingly obscene." Caravaggio's personal motto is "Nec spe. Nec metu" [Without hope. Without fear]. He's poor. He's searching, always, for a patron, and for a model who will draw the attention of the world to his work.
Present day: a young woman, Aysha, and an elderly American professor, embark on a quest to find a lost Caravaggio.
The world of the late sixteenth century comes alive as the twentieth century sleuths follow the trail.
I read this EARC courtesy of Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing pub date 06/01/19
Present day: a young woman, Aysha, and an elderly American professor, embark on a quest to find a lost Caravaggio.
The world of the late sixteenth century comes alive as the twentieth century sleuths follow the trail.
I read this EARC courtesy of Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing pub date 06/01/19
October 7, 2019
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. It was an interesting read. This book wasn’t bad. It’s just that not every part of the book jived with me. I had my ups and downs with this book and it stayed on my “currently reading” list for far too long. I have a degree in art history, and I can say that this book was clearly well researched and presented (with a fictional twist of course). I didn’t know much about Caravaggio’s life or the extent of his work (but I’m not surprised). I thought the contemporary parts were not so bad either. There were just points throughout the book that, at times, seemed dry and repetitive. I’d give it somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars. I’m glad I finally finished it, as there were times where I was tempted not to.
December 31, 2022
This is a story on two levels. At first, it's a tale of the search for a lost Carravagio painting which involves a renegade group of the Knights of Malta, the Mafia, an art student, and a retired professor. The second theme, in alternating chapters, takes us to the story of Carravagio and the history of his most famous paintings.
Some of the events in the modern story are a bit over the top but overall it is an entertaining story. The author's use of Italian/Sicilian with translations following seems to me like showing off; it would have been better to do it all in English and just indicate the switch in the text. It might work better in a movie with the use of subtitles, but in a book, it's just annoying.
Some of the events in the modern story are a bit over the top but overall it is an entertaining story. The author's use of Italian/Sicilian with translations following seems to me like showing off; it would have been better to do it all in English and just indicate the switch in the text. It might work better in a movie with the use of subtitles, but in a book, it's just annoying.
December 10, 2019
This book was okay but I was only 10 pages in before I realised what I was in for - a wannabe Da Vinci Code imitation with (thankfully) slightly more likeable characters and an annoying tendency to insert random Italian sentences in the text, only to then immediately translate them into English. If the intended effect was to convey what it feels like to be surrounded by bi-lingual conversation you can only partially understand, it didn’t work.
The best bits are the period scenes set during Caravaggio’s life - clearly inspired by his paintings, they evoke a sordid, dangerous, chiaroscuro world very effectively, even when they feel slightly exaggerated.
The best bits are the period scenes set during Caravaggio’s life - clearly inspired by his paintings, they evoke a sordid, dangerous, chiaroscuro world very effectively, even when they feel slightly exaggerated.
January 31, 2020
This is a historical novel based on the life of renowned 17th century Italian artist Michael Caravaggio. The story alternates back and forth between Caravaggio’s reckless life style while creating some of Italy’s greatest works of art and a modern day search to uncover the truth surrounding the true origin of one of his last and most controversial paintings. This is a good story that includes many colorful descriptions of 17th century Italian city life as well as the rivalries between the original Sicilian Mafia families of the time and the ancient Knights of Malta. A good look back at Italian history.
June 2, 2019
Great and fascinating read.
So at the start of this book I thought it was going along the lines of a Dan Brown story line, however this is not the case. This is a well researched and written piece of work. I learnt a great deal about 16 century Italy and also a painter i had never heard of before, and now want to see his works that are in display.
The twin time lines work well with great characters and also the amount of Italian in the book that again furthers the readers immersion in to the book. Over all a great read and really enjoyable.
So at the start of this book I thought it was going along the lines of a Dan Brown story line, however this is not the case. This is a well researched and written piece of work. I learnt a great deal about 16 century Italy and also a painter i had never heard of before, and now want to see his works that are in display.
The twin time lines work well with great characters and also the amount of Italian in the book that again furthers the readers immersion in to the book. Over all a great read and really enjoyable.
June 22, 2019
I give this book 5+ stars! Such a fascinating story about a priest claiming a lost painting by the artist Caravaggio. When the painting is stolen before the priest can sell it for the benefit of an orphanage, a retired professor and visiting art student and her friend begin a quest to prove the painting is genuine and repair the priest's reputation.
The book alternates between the present and the past to give the reader a view of Caravaggio's life and the events that lead to the present dilemma.
The book alternates between the present and the past to give the reader a view of Caravaggio's life and the events that lead to the present dilemma.
May 7, 2019
Light in the Shadows
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the movement between the modern day drama unfolding and the past tale of Caravaggio’s adult life. What a character! Larger than life, as rough as old bags but a true genius and recognised as such in his own life. Reading the story prompted me to look for his paintings online and whilst no art expert I found them truly amazing. If you enjoy historical novels then this is one you should certainly read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the movement between the modern day drama unfolding and the past tale of Caravaggio’s adult life. What a character! Larger than life, as rough as old bags but a true genius and recognised as such in his own life. Reading the story prompted me to look for his paintings online and whilst no art expert I found them truly amazing. If you enjoy historical novels then this is one you should certainly read.
May 24, 2019
Disappointing book. Rather too long with sections I was tempted to skip over. I found the chopping and changing between the 1600s and present day very disconcerting at times and felt the book could have been edited better. I already knew Caravaggio was something of a "character" and this is portrayed quite well. The modern conspiracy was very, very confusing and I still don't really get who was who and why even after finishing it!
May 25, 2019
Art, History, Skullduggery and Murder
This goes between the modern day attempt to prove a painting is an original and those that will stop at nothing to prevent this happening and the life of the artist. The history element is interesting and didn't attempt to hide that despite his genius, the artist is at turns a brute and a thug. I love this artist and very much enjoyed this book. It has made me want to see more of his masterpieces!
This goes between the modern day attempt to prove a painting is an original and those that will stop at nothing to prevent this happening and the life of the artist. The history element is interesting and didn't attempt to hide that despite his genius, the artist is at turns a brute and a thug. I love this artist and very much enjoyed this book. It has made me want to see more of his masterpieces!
June 7, 2019
An overly long and disjointed novel which attempts to weave the story of Caravaggio's exceptional but violent career with a modern story relating to a long-lost painting by the troubled artist. Sadly the tale of conflicting interests of the mafia and a right-wing, anti-Islamist brotherhood of 21st Century crusaders never really works with an increasingly high body count and poor quality writing which does not do justice to the subject - a tale of potential wasted.
January 15, 2020
About 20% of the way through this I realised that it was a poor Da Vinci Code imitation that I wasn’t going to enjoy.
I might have enjoyed it more if I was interested in art history, and Caravaggio himself, but it’s unlikely.
I did persevere and finish this, but I shouldn’t have bothered. The modern day plot is dull and the characters just aren’t likeable or interesting. The Caravaggio plot didn’t interest me either.
I might have enjoyed it more if I was interested in art history, and Caravaggio himself, but it’s unlikely.
I did persevere and finish this, but I shouldn’t have bothered. The modern day plot is dull and the characters just aren’t likeable or interesting. The Caravaggio plot didn’t interest me either.
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