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Raphael, Painter in Rome
Another fabulous art history thriller by the bestselling author of Oil and Marble, featuring the master of Renaissance perfection: Raphael!
Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling is one of the most iconic masterpieces of the Renaissance. Here, in Raphael, Painter in Rome, Storey tells of its creation as never before: through the eyes of Michelangelo’s fiercest rival—the young, beautiful, brilliant painter of perfection, Raphael. Orphaned at age eleven, Raphael is determined to keep the deathbed promise he made to his father: become the greatest artist in history. But to be the best, he must beat the best, the legendary sculptor of the David, Michelangelo Buonarroti. When Pope Julius II calls both artists down to Rome, they are pitted against each other: Michelangelo painting the Sistine Ceiling, while Raphael decorates the pope's private apartments. As Raphael strives toward perfection in paint, he battles internal demons: his desperate ambition, crippling fear of imperfection, and unshakable loneliness. Along the way, he conspires with cardinals, scrambles through the ruins of ancient Rome, and falls in love with a baker’s-daughter-turned-prostitute who becomes his muse.
With its gorgeous writing, rich settings, endearing characters, and riveting plot, Raphael, Painter in Rome brings to vivid life these two Renaissance masters going head to head in the deadly halls of the Vatican.
Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling is one of the most iconic masterpieces of the Renaissance. Here, in Raphael, Painter in Rome, Storey tells of its creation as never before: through the eyes of Michelangelo’s fiercest rival—the young, beautiful, brilliant painter of perfection, Raphael. Orphaned at age eleven, Raphael is determined to keep the deathbed promise he made to his father: become the greatest artist in history. But to be the best, he must beat the best, the legendary sculptor of the David, Michelangelo Buonarroti. When Pope Julius II calls both artists down to Rome, they are pitted against each other: Michelangelo painting the Sistine Ceiling, while Raphael decorates the pope's private apartments. As Raphael strives toward perfection in paint, he battles internal demons: his desperate ambition, crippling fear of imperfection, and unshakable loneliness. Along the way, he conspires with cardinals, scrambles through the ruins of ancient Rome, and falls in love with a baker’s-daughter-turned-prostitute who becomes his muse.
With its gorgeous writing, rich settings, endearing characters, and riveting plot, Raphael, Painter in Rome brings to vivid life these two Renaissance masters going head to head in the deadly halls of the Vatican.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published April 7, 2020
566 people are currently reading
9270 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Storey
2 books414 followersStephanie Storey is the author of the bestselling historical novel, "Oil and Marble: a novel of Leonardo and Michelangelo." The New York Times called it "tremendously entertaining," it has been translated into 6 languages and is in development as a feature film by Pioneer Pictures. Storey is also the author of "Raphael, Painter in Rome," and a national television producer of shows like The Arsenio Hall Show for CBS, The Alec Baldwin Show on ABC, History's Greatest Mysteries on the History Channel, and the Writers' Room with Jim Rash on Sundance. Storey and husband Mike Gandolfi--an actor and Emmy-winning comedy writer--can usually be found traveling the world in search of their next stories.
For more information, visit https://stephaniestorey.com
For more information, visit https://stephaniestorey.com
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March 12, 2021Am I allowed to review my own book on Goodreads? I mean I have read it, probably 800 times (but who actually counts the number of revisions you do while writing a novel? It might've been 1,000 times)... And I did I enjoy WRITING it very much. I mean, like 5-star level enjoyment of writing. Does THAT count??????????
April 7, 2020
Raphael Santi of Urbino (1483-1520) rises from a small town to the mightiest ceilings of the Vatican, becoming the master painter at the Vatican and to be known for capturing “a man’s soul with the flick of a brush.” Together with Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, they become the great masters of the High Renaissance.
Raphael inherits his talent from his father. He is orphaned at the age of eleven and at his father’s deathbed, he promises to become the greatest artist in history. This only makes him being obsessed with perfection.
Florence, 1504. Michelangelo is commissioned for a painting, which puts painters of Florence into a rage. How such a “lowly stonecutter” can be commissioned for such “an important painting?”
As the story unravels, through the voice of Raphael we learn his thoughts and how obsessed he is with perfection. He looks at Masaccio’s fresco of Holy Trinity and admits that not one painter has achieved the way to perfection as Masaccio did. At least not yet. And “Michelangelo was not aiming for perfection, but he had given me one of the keys to achieving it.”
After finishing his commission of Lamentation of Christ, he gets papal summons to Rome.
At the Vatican, he works in close proximity to Michelangelo, sparking some rivalry.
As French army invades Italian peninsula, and as it often happens in dire times, nemeses find a common ground to save their art. Presenting a touching conversation between those two artistic icons.
When the Expulsion of Heliodorus fresco by Raphael is unveiled, the pope announces, “As you painted the world, so it became.” It seems as he paints miracles, so they arrive in the world. The peninsula is miraculously saved from the French.
Raphael’s work to perfection is very vivid through his observation of other artist’s works: Leonardo’s light, Botticelli’s vividness of figures, and Michelangelo’s capture of life; and through his own work of fresco painting, through its trial and error of perfecting its technical process, and with “creating the design, perfecting the perspective, balance, harmony.”
With great skill, the author paints beautiful portrait of a remarkable artist’s journey of self-discovery. From obsession with perfection, through rivalry with Michelangelo to understanding the core of success “that the only person I needed to chase, catch, and best…was me.”
The rivalry between Raphael and Michelangelo is a prominent part of the story. But when in strenuous need they support each other as they see it beneficial long term or maybe because they did want to compete with the best to become the best.
For the readers of historical fiction, especially those who love art, this is one of those books that you treasure greatly. It makes a much richer experience to look at Raphael’s paintings now knowing the story of this painter of perfection, how he strove to get there; to achieve what we admire now with such awe.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Raphael inherits his talent from his father. He is orphaned at the age of eleven and at his father’s deathbed, he promises to become the greatest artist in history. This only makes him being obsessed with perfection.
Florence, 1504. Michelangelo is commissioned for a painting, which puts painters of Florence into a rage. How such a “lowly stonecutter” can be commissioned for such “an important painting?”
As the story unravels, through the voice of Raphael we learn his thoughts and how obsessed he is with perfection. He looks at Masaccio’s fresco of Holy Trinity and admits that not one painter has achieved the way to perfection as Masaccio did. At least not yet. And “Michelangelo was not aiming for perfection, but he had given me one of the keys to achieving it.”
After finishing his commission of Lamentation of Christ, he gets papal summons to Rome.
At the Vatican, he works in close proximity to Michelangelo, sparking some rivalry.
As French army invades Italian peninsula, and as it often happens in dire times, nemeses find a common ground to save their art. Presenting a touching conversation between those two artistic icons.
When the Expulsion of Heliodorus fresco by Raphael is unveiled, the pope announces, “As you painted the world, so it became.” It seems as he paints miracles, so they arrive in the world. The peninsula is miraculously saved from the French.
Raphael’s work to perfection is very vivid through his observation of other artist’s works: Leonardo’s light, Botticelli’s vividness of figures, and Michelangelo’s capture of life; and through his own work of fresco painting, through its trial and error of perfecting its technical process, and with “creating the design, perfecting the perspective, balance, harmony.”
With great skill, the author paints beautiful portrait of a remarkable artist’s journey of self-discovery. From obsession with perfection, through rivalry with Michelangelo to understanding the core of success “that the only person I needed to chase, catch, and best…was me.”
The rivalry between Raphael and Michelangelo is a prominent part of the story. But when in strenuous need they support each other as they see it beneficial long term or maybe because they did want to compete with the best to become the best.
For the readers of historical fiction, especially those who love art, this is one of those books that you treasure greatly. It makes a much richer experience to look at Raphael’s paintings now knowing the story of this painter of perfection, how he strove to get there; to achieve what we admire now with such awe.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley and Sky Horse Publishing for this free copy in exchange for an honest review. I have been fortunate to have now read both art historical fiction books by Stephanie Storey and so please to give both of them 5***** ratings! Tremendous books that looks at the history of that great Renaissance painter, Raphael, and his competition with Michelangelo during their times at the Vatican in the early part of the 16th century. The book is written in such a way that it appears Raphael is actually talking to us about his life and his artwork, his battles to get recognized outside of his home city of Urbino, along with working for Pope Julius II, and trying to wrest the painting of the Sistine Chapel from Michelangelo., as well as the title of Architect of St. Peters competition. Based on extensive love and research into this topic, Storey has written an extremely interesting a very readable book. It is fun to go back and forth between the book and then researching the paintings and sculptures that form the basis of the book and competition. Having been fortunate to have seen many of this artwork in person I loved so much of the backstory that is told in the book, and if you have not seen these in person they are so simple to look up on your computer and gaze longer and even see more detail than you can when you are there in person. Wonderful book, if you have the chance also read Oil & Marble to get a great insight into the Da Vinci-Michelangelo story.
April 8, 2020
Read an ARC of this for a cover quote, and loved it. Stephanie Storey paints a warm, witty, mesmerizing portrait of the Renaissance’s most famous painters: the charming Raphael and the irascible Michelangelo, dueling for the title of greatest artist in Rome. Only one will win the ultimate commission of the Sistine Chapel, and Raphael is determined the ceiling will be his—but at what cost? RAPHAEL: PAINTER IN ROME is a feast for the senses, every brush-stroke a delight.
April 15, 2020
Raphael, Painter in Rome is worth every minute of your precious reading time, I promise!
One of the first gifts from this author is a note which encourages the reader to read this novel with access to computer, tablet or smartphone so you have quick resources for looking up the paintings, statutes and other art mentioned, as well as finding many actual persons in history. I followed this advice and it increased my satisfaction and enjoyment by leaps and bounds. That is not to say the writing couldn't hold your attention on its own. . . it certainly does.
Raphael is writing in the style of epistles, to someone who knows him well and is interested in all the crannies of his life, yet someone who still needs background on all the areas a reader also needs in order to understand a life lived in 1520. He describes with humor his dreams and daily activities, his desire to best Michelangelo (yes, that Michelangelo), to meet and become buddies with Leonardo, and form alliances with cardinals and popes, dukes and other dukes (Medici. Yep. those Medicis). He name drops so often you need to chart it out. Sweet surprises throughout, though, made me catch my breath - the mischievous cherubs so often seen - who they are and what they were really looking at. . . .
But best of all. . .the painting. Masterful at showing how the artists think, feel and this author flows all of that energy through her words, years of research provide foundation and structure down to the smallest details. In Raphael's case it is painting, on plasters, on wood, on parchment, paper or whatever can hold the art. Orphaned early on, his desire to fulfill his father's wish that he be the greatest artist in all of history consumes him, and in that quest he studies with the masters in Florence and eventually finds himself at the Vatican, under the Sistine Chapel. . .yep. That Sistine Chapel. There watching Michelangelo, there helping, heeding, hindering, working for and against factions in power and out of power. So delicious was this that I read it slowly. I wanted to feel every drop of that paint, catch marble dust on my tongue, and smell the history. Painterly colors consumed my imagining of this tale as it surrounded me: vermilion, carmine, saffron, ultramarine, emerald, lapis, lemon, indigo, moss, sienna. . . .
And the last gift? An impressive Epilogue, and another very helpful Author's Note, generously pointing to other books that an interested reader can seek out for more information, and which also helps a novice know what really was fiction and what of the tale is truly historical.
I look forward to any future works by this author, and am happy to see this is not her first, and there is more to find on Leonardo and Michelangelo in her body of work.
My rating? All the stars possible, sprinkled liberally with Rafa's sprezzatura!
My sincere thanks to Stephanie Storey, Arcade Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me an ARC to read and review.
One of the first gifts from this author is a note which encourages the reader to read this novel with access to computer, tablet or smartphone so you have quick resources for looking up the paintings, statutes and other art mentioned, as well as finding many actual persons in history. I followed this advice and it increased my satisfaction and enjoyment by leaps and bounds. That is not to say the writing couldn't hold your attention on its own. . . it certainly does.
Raphael is writing in the style of epistles, to someone who knows him well and is interested in all the crannies of his life, yet someone who still needs background on all the areas a reader also needs in order to understand a life lived in 1520. He describes with humor his dreams and daily activities, his desire to best Michelangelo (yes, that Michelangelo), to meet and become buddies with Leonardo, and form alliances with cardinals and popes, dukes and other dukes (Medici. Yep. those Medicis). He name drops so often you need to chart it out. Sweet surprises throughout, though, made me catch my breath - the mischievous cherubs so often seen - who they are and what they were really looking at. . . .
But best of all. . .the painting. Masterful at showing how the artists think, feel and this author flows all of that energy through her words, years of research provide foundation and structure down to the smallest details. In Raphael's case it is painting, on plasters, on wood, on parchment, paper or whatever can hold the art. Orphaned early on, his desire to fulfill his father's wish that he be the greatest artist in all of history consumes him, and in that quest he studies with the masters in Florence and eventually finds himself at the Vatican, under the Sistine Chapel. . .yep. That Sistine Chapel. There watching Michelangelo, there helping, heeding, hindering, working for and against factions in power and out of power. So delicious was this that I read it slowly. I wanted to feel every drop of that paint, catch marble dust on my tongue, and smell the history. Painterly colors consumed my imagining of this tale as it surrounded me: vermilion, carmine, saffron, ultramarine, emerald, lapis, lemon, indigo, moss, sienna. . . .
And the last gift? An impressive Epilogue, and another very helpful Author's Note, generously pointing to other books that an interested reader can seek out for more information, and which also helps a novice know what really was fiction and what of the tale is truly historical.
I look forward to any future works by this author, and am happy to see this is not her first, and there is more to find on Leonardo and Michelangelo in her body of work.
My rating? All the stars possible, sprinkled liberally with Rafa's sprezzatura!
My sincere thanks to Stephanie Storey, Arcade Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me an ARC to read and review.
August 10, 2022
Raphael, orphaned at the age of 11 is determined to keep his promise to his dying father to become the greatest artist in history.
But about Michelangelo Buonarrot?
I took the authors advise and googled the painting on my tablet as I read this wonderful book. What a great treat to see the paintings come to life.
Stephanie Storey does a wonderful job of bringing Raphael to life, This book is written in his voice and you feel like he is an old friend.
Raphael is summoned to Rome hoping to paint the Sistine ceiling, but low and behold to job goes to Michelangelo. As the pair are pitted against one another, the adventure begins. Who will be the ultimate artist?
If you love art history, you will love this book. I need to go back to Rome and revisit.
But about Michelangelo Buonarrot?
I took the authors advise and googled the painting on my tablet as I read this wonderful book. What a great treat to see the paintings come to life.
Stephanie Storey does a wonderful job of bringing Raphael to life, This book is written in his voice and you feel like he is an old friend.
Raphael is summoned to Rome hoping to paint the Sistine ceiling, but low and behold to job goes to Michelangelo. As the pair are pitted against one another, the adventure begins. Who will be the ultimate artist?
If you love art history, you will love this book. I need to go back to Rome and revisit.
February 2, 2020
If you've never visited the Vatican, this book will convince you to. And if you have already, you will recognize every nook and cranny shown. Raphael himself takes the reader on a fast paced ten year journey, telling his story as it unfolds. What an astounding work of historical fiction! It's clear from the start the writer has done extensive research. All Raphael's contemporaries are in, famous works of art show up on every other page and life at the start of the sixteenth century is present in all its glorious and gory details.
Raphael has a great sense of humor, dark and sarcastic at times, but always on the lookout for beauty. Painting life as it should be, not the harsh reality spread out before him, thus creating miracles that bring hope to the masses.
The ongoing competition with Michelangelo is vividly descripted, each artist battling to be the greatest one that ever lived. This book should be required reading for every history and art buff alive, being both fascinating and delicious!
Thank you Netgalley and Arcade for the ARC.
Raphael has a great sense of humor, dark and sarcastic at times, but always on the lookout for beauty. Painting life as it should be, not the harsh reality spread out before him, thus creating miracles that bring hope to the masses.
The ongoing competition with Michelangelo is vividly descripted, each artist battling to be the greatest one that ever lived. This book should be required reading for every history and art buff alive, being both fascinating and delicious!
Thank you Netgalley and Arcade for the ARC.
April 7, 2020
Rating: 5 glowing, pigment drenched stars
“Raphael, Painter in Rome” is another fantastic work of historical fiction about Italian art written by Stephanie Storey. I thoroughly enjoyed her earlier book, “Oil and Marble” which told the tale of DaVinci and Michelangelo. Therefore, I was thrilled when I received an Advanced Readers Copy of her latest work. This story centers on Raphael Santi of Urbino (1483-1520). It is a story of the art of early 16th century Italy, especially art sponsored by the Vatican. Raphael narrates his own story. He’s a bit of cheeky narrator, which I liked.
We follow Raphael as he travels around Italy learning first from his father, and then from great masters in Florence. In Florence is influence by DaVinci’s work, and he is intimidated by Michelangelo. A few years later, he ventures to Rome to try to get a commission from Poe, Julius II. As the story goes, the Pope loves a good competition so he pits Raphael against Michelangelo. Even though Michelangelo is grudgingly painting the Sistine Chapel, he would much rather be creating the Pope’s tomb. His passion is sculpting, not painting. In the course of the competition, Raphael completes an amazing room of frescoes in what was intended to be the Pope’s study. The painting of each wall gets him closer to his ultimate goal of painting the perfectly composed scene.
The competition is the basis for much of the drama in this easily accessible story about art history. It is history about painting, sculpting and architecture. We encounter all sorts of secular and church characters who inhabit all levels Roman society. The encounters provide background and depth to the centerpiece of what life was like for these artists. The author once again captured my imagination, and kept me turning pages as if I was reading a thriller. I have been lucky enough to see many of the works described in the book in person on my travels in Europe. The book’s descriptions of the artwork more completely filled in my memory of the colors and shapes of the works that I viewed.
This is not a dry accounting filled with dates and places. I laughed at the points when Raphael would turn and talk to the reader directly; asking questions that in all likelihood, we wouldn’t know the answers to. It made me feel more connected to the humanness of Raphael. As he narrates his actions, he clearly has OCD, which adds to the accessibility of his character. Even as I suspect these details are an artistic license taken by Ms. Storey, they do not bother me.
This book was educational and entertaining. ‘Brava’, to the author. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about Italian Renaissance art or society.
‘Thank-You’ to NetGalley; the publisher, Skyhorse Publishing, Arcade; and the author, Stephanie Storey for providing a free e-ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Raphael, Painter in Rome” is another fantastic work of historical fiction about Italian art written by Stephanie Storey. I thoroughly enjoyed her earlier book, “Oil and Marble” which told the tale of DaVinci and Michelangelo. Therefore, I was thrilled when I received an Advanced Readers Copy of her latest work. This story centers on Raphael Santi of Urbino (1483-1520). It is a story of the art of early 16th century Italy, especially art sponsored by the Vatican. Raphael narrates his own story. He’s a bit of cheeky narrator, which I liked.
We follow Raphael as he travels around Italy learning first from his father, and then from great masters in Florence. In Florence is influence by DaVinci’s work, and he is intimidated by Michelangelo. A few years later, he ventures to Rome to try to get a commission from Poe, Julius II. As the story goes, the Pope loves a good competition so he pits Raphael against Michelangelo. Even though Michelangelo is grudgingly painting the Sistine Chapel, he would much rather be creating the Pope’s tomb. His passion is sculpting, not painting. In the course of the competition, Raphael completes an amazing room of frescoes in what was intended to be the Pope’s study. The painting of each wall gets him closer to his ultimate goal of painting the perfectly composed scene.
The competition is the basis for much of the drama in this easily accessible story about art history. It is history about painting, sculpting and architecture. We encounter all sorts of secular and church characters who inhabit all levels Roman society. The encounters provide background and depth to the centerpiece of what life was like for these artists. The author once again captured my imagination, and kept me turning pages as if I was reading a thriller. I have been lucky enough to see many of the works described in the book in person on my travels in Europe. The book’s descriptions of the artwork more completely filled in my memory of the colors and shapes of the works that I viewed.
This is not a dry accounting filled with dates and places. I laughed at the points when Raphael would turn and talk to the reader directly; asking questions that in all likelihood, we wouldn’t know the answers to. It made me feel more connected to the humanness of Raphael. As he narrates his actions, he clearly has OCD, which adds to the accessibility of his character. Even as I suspect these details are an artistic license taken by Ms. Storey, they do not bother me.
This book was educational and entertaining. ‘Brava’, to the author. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about Italian Renaissance art or society.
‘Thank-You’ to NetGalley; the publisher, Skyhorse Publishing, Arcade; and the author, Stephanie Storey for providing a free e-ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2021
After a hesitant beginning, I found myself looking forward to spending time with this story and eventually became engrossed in it. Do not buy the audiobook or you miss out on the clever way the kindle version allows you to click on the name of a painting which automatically opens the website for it. I am eager to read Storey’s Oil and Marble book
April 22, 2020
From the very beginning I loved Raphael's fresh voice and mischievous manner. Well researched, I loved this story
January 14, 2020
I absolutely adored this book and was thrilled and honored to be asked to read an early copy. Below is my blurb for the novel:
"In Raphael, Painter in Rome, Stephanie Storey takes one of the most towering figures of the Renaissance and seats him across a tavern table from the reader. Raphael's voice is as vibrant and colorful as one of his paintings, and he positively leaps off the page and to life. Impeccably researched, this is an engaging and timely novel about the ways in which politics and art are and always have been intertwined."
"In Raphael, Painter in Rome, Stephanie Storey takes one of the most towering figures of the Renaissance and seats him across a tavern table from the reader. Raphael's voice is as vibrant and colorful as one of his paintings, and he positively leaps off the page and to life. Impeccably researched, this is an engaging and timely novel about the ways in which politics and art are and always have been intertwined."
April 1, 2021
A brilliant book, written in first person, and I came away feeling I had made friends with Raphael. The modern use of language and personal connections made this a gift of a read dealing with the hard work, insecurity, and obsession that is necessary for a genius. The links to the pieces of art that are discussed added to my read time, as I had to float into each amazing piece. I have been to the Vatican and the artwork was stunning, but now I want to go back with greater knowledge and what feels like a personal involvement.
December 29, 2019
This book about Raphael will definitely appeal to those who are looking for a good novel set in historical times. There’s a wealth of information in the book to satisfy most history buffs and art lovers and there’s ample intrigue, gossip and rivalry to keep most readers turning pages.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2020
I read the earlier book by this author Oil and Marble: A Novel of Leonardo and Michelangelo and had this one on hold for some time at the library. When it finally came through it gave me the opportunity to once again visit the physical library, an outing in this time of masks and temperature taking.
I appreciate the author's love for the Renaissance but found that once again I did not like the flow of the book. It is a handsome book. The subjects are of interest but it just doesn't hold the attention for me. I guess I can understand that Michelangelo was a grumpy, difficult guy and it is sad to think of Raphael dying at age 37 due to lifestyle, but they do not rise above their depiction as caricatures here.
Library Loan
I appreciate the author's love for the Renaissance but found that once again I did not like the flow of the book. It is a handsome book. The subjects are of interest but it just doesn't hold the attention for me. I guess I can understand that Michelangelo was a grumpy, difficult guy and it is sad to think of Raphael dying at age 37 due to lifestyle, but they do not rise above their depiction as caricatures here.
Library Loan
April 25, 2021
Uno, due... I'm rating this book a tre (the author's use of modern language to show that Raphael was young and upbeat was jarringly incongruous in the context of the Renaissance period; the dialogues too fantastical; and the rendition of Michelangelo as an introvert, boorish artist was too one-dimensional). I'm rather disappointed with this book as I quite enjoyed Storey's "Oil and Marble: A Novel of Leonardo and Michelangelo".
January 18, 2021
I love her books on the Italian Renaissance artists. I especially enjoy it since I’ve been to some of the places they describe in Florence and Rome.I like to look up the paintings also.
April 3, 2020
The politics of the particular time in Rome’s history are as much a “character” in this book as the outsized personalities of the great artists of the Renaissance; Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo, Bramante and others. I will admit to not being a huge fan of Raphael’s art – his pieces are too refined, yes – too perfect for me. My passions lie in more towards the chaos and power of what Michelangelo left to the world. That is not discount the beauty of what Raphael created – this is the magnificence of art. There is something for everyone.
The focus of this book is the painting of the Sistine Ceiling. Obviously we all know who painted it and how it looks now but Ms. Storey actually creates a tension about whether the outcome will be as history has shown. That is some kind of writing. I mean – we all know that Michelangelo painted that ceiling, we know exactly what it looks like and yet as I got caught up in the story I wondered if he was going to be fired. Although history also tells us that Michelangelo was a testy sort of fellow and despite his genius he might well of had been!
But this is Raphael’s story and so we should turn our attention to his efforts to promote himself to the powers that be so that he could be considered for the job of painting the ceiling. We learn of Raphael growing up in his father’s shadow, learning to paint from him. It was his father that gave him the drive to seek perfection in his art. After his father died he was apprenticed with the great painter Perugino and from there he went on to seek to improve upon many of the masters’ works of art. Was he copying or was he improving? A good question…
Ms. Storey shows the artist’s insecurities in his desire to best all of the artists of his day but one wonders if Raphael was ever passionate about the art or only about acheiving the perfect painting. He is also determined to paint the Sistine, not realizing that it has already been promised to Michelangelo. Not realizing that Michelangelo was not just a sculptor. Raphael did paint a suite of rooms in the Vatican and that is where you will find his most well known work, the one we know today as The School of Athens. But is was not the ceiling.
The story was a truly compelling one, especially for someone who loves this period in history and these artists. But beyond the art it’s just a good tale. It was a real page turner for me and I knew exactly how it was going to turn out! Ms. Storey brought the greats of the Renaissance to life from Pope Julius II, Pope Leo X (he of the “…God has seen fit to grant us the Papacy, let us enjoy it.”) to the great artists of the time. I did not have the opportunity to read her first book, Oil and Marble but it’s on my wishlist.
And as an aside, I remember the first time I saw the Sistine Ceiling. I walked into the room and was literally was stopped dead in my tracks. The guard at the door had to touch my arm and encourage me to move along. I’ve never had an experience like that before or after. It was close when I saw Michelangelo’s Pieta in St. Peter’s. Even as stunning a work of art as that is, it did not cause the reaction the Ceiling did.
The focus of this book is the painting of the Sistine Ceiling. Obviously we all know who painted it and how it looks now but Ms. Storey actually creates a tension about whether the outcome will be as history has shown. That is some kind of writing. I mean – we all know that Michelangelo painted that ceiling, we know exactly what it looks like and yet as I got caught up in the story I wondered if he was going to be fired. Although history also tells us that Michelangelo was a testy sort of fellow and despite his genius he might well of had been!
But this is Raphael’s story and so we should turn our attention to his efforts to promote himself to the powers that be so that he could be considered for the job of painting the ceiling. We learn of Raphael growing up in his father’s shadow, learning to paint from him. It was his father that gave him the drive to seek perfection in his art. After his father died he was apprenticed with the great painter Perugino and from there he went on to seek to improve upon many of the masters’ works of art. Was he copying or was he improving? A good question…
Ms. Storey shows the artist’s insecurities in his desire to best all of the artists of his day but one wonders if Raphael was ever passionate about the art or only about acheiving the perfect painting. He is also determined to paint the Sistine, not realizing that it has already been promised to Michelangelo. Not realizing that Michelangelo was not just a sculptor. Raphael did paint a suite of rooms in the Vatican and that is where you will find his most well known work, the one we know today as The School of Athens. But is was not the ceiling.
The story was a truly compelling one, especially for someone who loves this period in history and these artists. But beyond the art it’s just a good tale. It was a real page turner for me and I knew exactly how it was going to turn out! Ms. Storey brought the greats of the Renaissance to life from Pope Julius II, Pope Leo X (he of the “…God has seen fit to grant us the Papacy, let us enjoy it.”) to the great artists of the time. I did not have the opportunity to read her first book, Oil and Marble but it’s on my wishlist.
And as an aside, I remember the first time I saw the Sistine Ceiling. I walked into the room and was literally was stopped dead in my tracks. The guard at the door had to touch my arm and encourage me to move along. I’ve never had an experience like that before or after. It was close when I saw Michelangelo’s Pieta in St. Peter’s. Even as stunning a work of art as that is, it did not cause the reaction the Ceiling did.
April 12, 2020
Raphael, Painter in Rome
Raphael, Painter in Rome
Thanks so much for my beautiful #gifted
#arc @skyhorsepub Stephanie Storey @sgstorey
The bestselling author of Oil and Marble, featuring the master of Renaissance Raphael!
A enchanting fictional biography of Raphael Santi of Urbino was one of the premier painters in 16th century Rome.
Stephanie Storey newest book, Raphael, Painter in Rome a riveting mesmerizing portrait of the Renaissance’s most famous painters. The enchanting playboy Raphael and the explosive Michelangelo.
Both competing for the title of greatest artist in Rome.
But only one will come out the winner, with the ultimate prize being the commission of the Sistine Chapel.
With stunning narration, and a captivating storyline. A detailed look
At the notorious intrigue within Vatican and the turbulence with artistic at this point in history, is carefully depicted within these beautiful pages.
The illustrious life of one the greatest painters ever lived Raphael.
Another splendid book by Stephanie Storey, a spellbinding art history, with enough thrills and gorgeous atmospheric settings makes this one unforgettable read.
#raphaelpainterinrome #stephaniestorey #artinfiction #histfic #historicalfiction #raphael #renaissanceitaly #renaissancerome #fashion #historicalfiction #novel #bookstoread #coverreveal #newbook #womenauthors #womenwriters #bookrecommendation #bookstagram #bookish #booksandfashion #styleicon #styleinspiration #booksof2020 #historicalfiction #gwendalyn_books_ #historicalreads #bibliophile #pemberleycorner
#RaphaelPainterinRome
Raphael, Painter in Rome
Thanks so much for my beautiful #gifted
#arc @skyhorsepub Stephanie Storey @sgstorey
The bestselling author of Oil and Marble, featuring the master of Renaissance Raphael!
A enchanting fictional biography of Raphael Santi of Urbino was one of the premier painters in 16th century Rome.
Stephanie Storey newest book, Raphael, Painter in Rome a riveting mesmerizing portrait of the Renaissance’s most famous painters. The enchanting playboy Raphael and the explosive Michelangelo.
Both competing for the title of greatest artist in Rome.
But only one will come out the winner, with the ultimate prize being the commission of the Sistine Chapel.
With stunning narration, and a captivating storyline. A detailed look
At the notorious intrigue within Vatican and the turbulence with artistic at this point in history, is carefully depicted within these beautiful pages.
The illustrious life of one the greatest painters ever lived Raphael.
Another splendid book by Stephanie Storey, a spellbinding art history, with enough thrills and gorgeous atmospheric settings makes this one unforgettable read.
#raphaelpainterinrome #stephaniestorey #artinfiction #histfic #historicalfiction #raphael #renaissanceitaly #renaissancerome #fashion #historicalfiction #novel #bookstoread #coverreveal #newbook #womenauthors #womenwriters #bookrecommendation #bookstagram #bookish #booksandfashion #styleicon #styleinspiration #booksof2020 #historicalfiction #gwendalyn_books_ #historicalreads #bibliophile #pemberleycorner
#RaphaelPainterinRome
April 13, 2020
Wonderful historical fiction and an art lesson
Storey has taken the bare facts of Raphael's life and created a vibrant painting of her own. Reading it in the Ebook version also allowed her to guide me through the artworks she describes. This makes this more satisfying an experience than just another novel about how artists think.
Storey has taken the bare facts of Raphael's life and created a vibrant painting of her own. Reading it in the Ebook version also allowed her to guide me through the artworks she describes. This makes this more satisfying an experience than just another novel about how artists think.
March 29, 2022
I loved learning about how some of these famous artists worked together at the Vatican. I don't know that I ever thought about them competing for work. Reading this digitally is the move because of the links to the art.
August 4, 2020
Another home run by historical fiction/art thriller author Stephanie Storey!
Her latest novel Raphael, Painter in Rome: A Novel, takes readers back to Renaissance Italy, but more specifically to the rivalry between Raphael, Santi of Urbino and Michelangelo Buonarroti of Florence.
Raphael, Santi of Urbino at the young age of eight lost his mother and sister, and then at the age of eleven lost his father. However, before his father's death, Raphael made the promise on his father's deathbed to "become the greatest painter in the world".
The rivalry spoken of in this novel is solely on the Sistine Ceiling and the Papal Apartments (private apartments). As always in rivalries, we let our competition get to our heads and this muddles our appreciation of the opposition and what they've accomplished.
As a result of this rivalry that was between the two greatest artists of the Renaissance Italy time period, there's this quote by Raphael: "I'd dearly hate to miss the opportunity to go head-to-head with him (Michelangelo) once again in the halls of the Vatican".
As I was reading this novel, I could easily envision myself being in 16th Century Renaissance Italy while all this was unfolding due to the author's use of descriptive wording, imagery, etc. I loved the incorporation of the author's usage of links to the artwork named in this novel, as this helped to piece the dots together never having been to Italy and seeing these sculptures and artworks.
For example, the author when speaking of the Sistine Ceiling explains to the readers that there are four walls to the ceiling: Religion, Law & Virtue, Poetry & Philosophy.
I sincerely hope that there are more books by this wonderful author who combines historical fiction and art history to write novels that don't bore you with art history but makes stories come alive.
To end this review, I leave you with this quote as mentioned below:
"Make the world not as it is, but as it should be"
Her latest novel Raphael, Painter in Rome: A Novel, takes readers back to Renaissance Italy, but more specifically to the rivalry between Raphael, Santi of Urbino and Michelangelo Buonarroti of Florence.
Raphael, Santi of Urbino at the young age of eight lost his mother and sister, and then at the age of eleven lost his father. However, before his father's death, Raphael made the promise on his father's deathbed to "become the greatest painter in the world".
The rivalry spoken of in this novel is solely on the Sistine Ceiling and the Papal Apartments (private apartments). As always in rivalries, we let our competition get to our heads and this muddles our appreciation of the opposition and what they've accomplished.
As a result of this rivalry that was between the two greatest artists of the Renaissance Italy time period, there's this quote by Raphael: "I'd dearly hate to miss the opportunity to go head-to-head with him (Michelangelo) once again in the halls of the Vatican".
As I was reading this novel, I could easily envision myself being in 16th Century Renaissance Italy while all this was unfolding due to the author's use of descriptive wording, imagery, etc. I loved the incorporation of the author's usage of links to the artwork named in this novel, as this helped to piece the dots together never having been to Italy and seeing these sculptures and artworks.
For example, the author when speaking of the Sistine Ceiling explains to the readers that there are four walls to the ceiling: Religion, Law & Virtue, Poetry & Philosophy.
I sincerely hope that there are more books by this wonderful author who combines historical fiction and art history to write novels that don't bore you with art history but makes stories come alive.
To end this review, I leave you with this quote as mentioned below:
"Make the world not as it is, but as it should be"
July 23, 2021
تعد هذه الرواية بمثابة جزء ثان لـ (زيت ورخام) متتبعة سير الثلاثي الفني العظيم (ليوناردو داڤينشي، مايكل آنجلو بوناروتي، رافايل سانتي) مع التركيز على سيرة هذه الأخير هنا.
ستيفاني ستوري روائية ذات حس تصويري رائع، تجيد إعادة خلق الزمان والمكان والشخصيات. تعتمد على الصوت الأول لتوجد بيئة مفعمة بالمشاعر الحميمة والحوارات المقرونة بتتابع الأحداث السريع. ولأنها تحب الفن كثيرا وموغلة في فهم شخوص أعمالها كما يظهر، فقد نجحت مجدداً في بث الروح في الأسماء القديمة وفي المرحلة التي تتناولها، لتعطينا حكاية حية تنبض بتفاعلات عصر النهضة الإيطالي، وكيف تقاطع الفن مع تعقيدات ودسائس السياسة والإكليريك الكنسي ليتراكم لنا إرث فني مبهر نعتاش اليوم على نتاجه.
القصة مسلية جداً. هناك حس فكاهي لاذع وحبكة تكاد تكون بوليسية، لكن الأهم أننا نغوص بشكل تلقائي في النفسيات الافتراضية لتلك الشخصيات. الآن يمكننا حين نتطلع إلى سقف كنيسة السيستين أو نتأمل في جدارية (مدرسة أثينا) أن نزعم أننا نفهم ما -يمكن- أنه دار في خلد مايكل آنجلو أو رافايل وشكّل رؤاهم. وتلك هي القيمة الأغلى لأية رواية كما يقولون: أن تعيش أكثر من حياة.
ستيفاني ستوري روائية ذات حس تصويري رائع، تجيد إعادة خلق الزمان والمكان والشخصيات. تعتمد على الصوت الأول لتوجد بيئة مفعمة بالمشاعر الحميمة والحوارات المقرونة بتتابع الأحداث السريع. ولأنها تحب الفن كثيرا وموغلة في فهم شخوص أعمالها كما يظهر، فقد نجحت مجدداً في بث الروح في الأسماء القديمة وفي المرحلة التي تتناولها، لتعطينا حكاية حية تنبض بتفاعلات عصر النهضة الإيطالي، وكيف تقاطع الفن مع تعقيدات ودسائس السياسة والإكليريك الكنسي ليتراكم لنا إرث فني مبهر نعتاش اليوم على نتاجه.
القصة مسلية جداً. هناك حس فكاهي لاذع وحبكة تكاد تكون بوليسية، لكن الأهم أننا نغوص بشكل تلقائي في النفسيات الافتراضية لتلك الشخصيات. الآن يمكننا حين نتطلع إلى سقف كنيسة السيستين أو نتأمل في جدارية (مدرسة أثينا) أن نزعم أننا نفهم ما -يمكن- أنه دار في خلد مايكل آنجلو أو رافايل وشكّل رؤاهم. وتلك هي القيمة الأغلى لأية رواية كما يقولون: أن تعيش أكثر من حياة.
February 9, 2022
Maybe I'll come back to this book one day, but it doesn't seem likely. I really, really hated the perspective of this book. My first issue was the voice/language didn't seem to match the time period. My next major issue was that it would change from first and second person as Raphael spoke to the reader asking you about a billion questions to set up his story though every chapter. It took me out of the story and felt too childish (like a kids' TV show that asks the viewers questions to engage them). I usually try to read at least 100 pages before quitting on a book, but I couldnt make it and gave up on chapter 10.
February 3, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for the free copy! I am so happy this book came to me..I loved the subject and reading of these fascinating, talented men and their art. Beautifully written, informative (I googled a lot 😉), and such details!! I fully felt immersed in this world by her writing, especially the way she had Raphael personally talking to the reader!
Quickly added her other book to my tbr pile.
“For even when it seems futile some of us, at least, must never stop trying to bend the world, even if only a little, toward beauty.”
Quickly added her other book to my tbr pile.
“For even when it seems futile some of us, at least, must never stop trying to bend the world, even if only a little, toward beauty.”
January 26, 2021
I had to read this one too after Oil and Marble. Stephanie Storey makes art history so much fun. I hope she keeps them coming!
March 30, 2020
I have a problem and I will just come out and say it: I am obsessed with art history
I took a few courses back in college on numerous art styles, even though it wasn't my major, and I've been hooked ever since. Every time I travel I make a point of visiting places with historical significance but also art museums and I always have my painting bucket list ready at the go (tell no one).
I was extremely excited when I got this book from netgalley and I have to say that I had no idea what to expect since I hadn't read the author before and I'm a little picky about my historical fiction, but I happily dug in.
The author tells the story of Raphael in a very engaging and quotidian way. From his time at his father's studio to his subsequent quest to become a master painter, he is shown to us through his weakest moments and failures but also, we get to experience and celebrate his achievements along the way.
Alongside, his famous friends we get to accompany Raphael in a quest that will take him from the lands of Urbino all the way to the streets of Rome where the carnage of the times was palpable and the influence of the Pope was unwavering (kinda).
While hated by many and appreciated by some, in a long period of time he manages to break the law, get into trouble, form friendships with the unlikeliest of people and at some point also fall irrevocable in love while trying his best to sustain his career and impress his contemporaries.
I believe Storey managed to balance the fiction and fact all the way through because of her extensive research which in itself is no small feat given how much time she spent on it. In the end, I feel like I was able to comprehend Raphael so much more and it is probably the closest that I'm gonna be to experience the kind of person and artist that he once was.
There's an afterword by the author where she lays out the ways in which she used fiction throughout the story to be able to connect it and make it work so don't despair, you will be able to tell fiction apart from fact at the end.
I took a few courses back in college on numerous art styles, even though it wasn't my major, and I've been hooked ever since. Every time I travel I make a point of visiting places with historical significance but also art museums and I always have my painting bucket list ready at the go (tell no one).
I was extremely excited when I got this book from netgalley and I have to say that I had no idea what to expect since I hadn't read the author before and I'm a little picky about my historical fiction, but I happily dug in.
The author tells the story of Raphael in a very engaging and quotidian way. From his time at his father's studio to his subsequent quest to become a master painter, he is shown to us through his weakest moments and failures but also, we get to experience and celebrate his achievements along the way.
Alongside, his famous friends we get to accompany Raphael in a quest that will take him from the lands of Urbino all the way to the streets of Rome where the carnage of the times was palpable and the influence of the Pope was unwavering (kinda).
While hated by many and appreciated by some, in a long period of time he manages to break the law, get into trouble, form friendships with the unlikeliest of people and at some point also fall irrevocable in love while trying his best to sustain his career and impress his contemporaries.
I believe Storey managed to balance the fiction and fact all the way through because of her extensive research which in itself is no small feat given how much time she spent on it. In the end, I feel like I was able to comprehend Raphael so much more and it is probably the closest that I'm gonna be to experience the kind of person and artist that he once was.
There's an afterword by the author where she lays out the ways in which she used fiction throughout the story to be able to connect it and make it work so don't despair, you will be able to tell fiction apart from fact at the end.
April 3, 2020
Absolutely terrific historical fiction that will send you to google to see the paintings and, eventually, when it's possible, to museums and the Vatican. Told from the perspective of Raphael, it's got everything you might want in a novel- tough times, good times, love, struggle, art, and best of all- rivalry, in this case with Michaelangelo. Meticulously researched but actually page turningly readable, this is one where you'll learn something while enjoying it. Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC. Anyone interested in art, anyone who likes historical fiction, anyone looking for a diverting read- try this!
April 19, 2020
What a fun romp through a fascinating piece of the Italian Renaissance period in Rome. I learned a lot and more importantly I'm motivated to investigate and learn more. Stephanie Storey is a master at combining endless research and knowledge with extraordinary imagination. I love the use of everyday, current language and she explains why she does this in the afterward. I also love how she seamlessly inserts Italian phrases throughout which are easy to interpret by context. I loved Oil and Marble but I think I enjoyed this one even more. Raphael makes for a very interesting subject...please write Felice's story next! It's dying to be told!!
April 28, 2020
Beautifully written and brings to life the time and art of Raphael and Michaelangelo. Loved the pacing of the chapters which kept me turning the page. Support information for the art on Ms. Storey's website very helpful.
February 9, 2023
Absolutely loved this book; it was very easy to read and kept me up half the night ... I couldn't put it down. Looking forward to reading the author's other book--OIL AND MARBLE-- about DaVinci and Michelangelo.
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