The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell

The Marriage Portrait is a richly atmospheric and deeply researched historical novel that transports readers to Renaissance Italy. The story revolves around Lucrezia de Medici, the third daughter of the grand duke of Florence. Lucrezia is comfortable with her obscure place in the palazzo, where she can wonder at its treasures and devote herself to her artistic pursuits. However, when her older sister dies on the eve of her wedding to the ruler of Ferrara, Lucrezia is thrust into the limelight. The duke quickly requests her hand in marriage, and her father accepts on her behalf thereby setting in motion a series of events that she could never have foreseen…

This story offers the reader a glimpse into a turbulent age and the indomitable spirit of a young woman who defies convention.