The Maiden of Florence by Katherine Mezzacappa

  

The Maiden of Florence by

Katherine Mezzacappa

SUMMARY:

'My defloration was talked about in all the courts of Europe. The Prince boasted of his prowess, even as preparations were being made for his wedding, as boldly as if he had ridden across that causeway with bloodstained sheet tied to his lance.'

1584, Italy: Twenty-year-old Giulia expects she will live and die incarcerated as a silk weaver within the walls of her Florentine orphanage, where she has never so much as glimpsed her own face. This all changes with the visit of the Medici family's most trusted advisor, promising her a generous dowry and a husband if she agrees to a small sacrifice that will bring honour and glory to her native city.

Vincenzo Gonzaga, libertine heir to the dukedom of Mantua, wants to marry the Grand-Duke of Tuscany's eldest daughter, but the rumours around his unconsummated first marriage must be silenced first. Eager for a dynastic alliance that will be a bulwark against the threat of Protestant heresy beyond the Alps, the Pope and his cardinals turn a blind eye to a mortal sin.

A powerful #MeToo story of the Renaissance, based on true events.

 

 

MY REVIEW:  

The story starts at the end.

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

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

This captivating story offers a fascinating glimpse into the court of a royal fiefdom in Renaissance Italy. Rich descriptions and intricate details paint a vivid picture of the setting. The Renaissance was a fervent period of European cultural, artistic, political and economic “rebirth” following the Middle Ages yet life for many people was grim For women especially, this era was characterized by strict gender roles, societal expectations, and legal constraints that shaped every aspect of their lives. Their experiences were influenced by factors such as class, race, and social status, further complicating their ability to navigate and assert themselves within their respective societies. For Giulia, her early life was one of abandonment, abstinence and cruelty, yet we feel that in recording the abuse, the suffering and the exploitation she suffered, her writing has almost a cathartic effect.

 The writing is beautiful, sensuous and stark. Giulia is removed from one orphanage, the Innocenti to another, the Pietra.

‘I was taken to the Pietra without warning. I think I was about ten. This place was run by pious widows, laywomen, those who did not want to submit to covent discipline so much as to impose it. I looked up at a sheer wall. There was no pretty colonnade with those roundels of swaddled babies as there was at the Innocenti – only small barred windows. I heard the clatter of looms the moment a gnarled old lay sister opened the gate to us and smelled the bitter smell of silkworms being boiled to death to give up their precious thread.’

 The novel achieves a level of authenticity and empathy that makes the historical period come alive. Readers are able to connect deeply with the protagonist's journey, experiencing her degradation, struggles and ultimate growth firsthand.

I will not provide any spoilers but the book is a #metoo true story so the reader knows that this will be about sexual abuse and assault. This was, after all a society where women's bodies were objectified and exploited. Women were only considered in terms of their physical attributes and used as commodities but in Giula’s story, we get a perspective that serves to empower and validate the experiences of women, highlighting the importance of recognizing and honoring their humanity beyond superficial appearances or societal expectations. This comes from love.

As part of the contract for her virginity, Guilia is promised a husband. She is wedded to a man she does not know. Giuliano, a court musician writes his own account of their new life together.

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

Another important theme in the story is faith. Religious belief was integral to everyday life. It was impossible to separate religion from political authority, international finance, art, and learning. No matter the hardships, Giulia suffers, she tells us that,

‘I went to confession regularly, at least once a month. I knelt and crossed myself and told the shadowy form listening to me through the grille. I heard the words, “God bless you, daughter, for I have prayed for you always, that your life might be a happy one after all you have suffered.’”

It is an accomplished and gripping story with depth. It is a dark exploration of inhumanity against women which was acceptable in that period.

 

Why I recommend this book

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

it is meticulously crafted, both in terms of research and imagination.

The hallmark of a great historical fiction novel is its capacity to transport readers to a different time and place, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of that era through the eyes of the protagonist. The Maiden of Florence is a historical fiction novel that truly excels in its ability to immerse readers in the world of its main character. It is profound and multifaceted. By acknowledging the complexities, challenges and indignities faced by women in the past, who might have been overlooked in traditional narratives, we can honor their experiences. The success of the book is due to the paradox of highlighting Giulia’s achievements and triumphs but also shedding light on the harsh realities and humiliation she endured to provide a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of history.

It is emotionally compelling, a story that not only informs and educates but also leaves a lasting impact.

 

 

AUTHOR BIO:

Katherine Mezzacappa is an Irish writer of mainly historical fiction, currently living in Italy. She has published several novels under pen names with publishers Bonnier Zaffre and eXtasy. She works as a manuscript assessor for The Literary Consultancy. Katherine reviews for Historical Novel Society’s quarterly journal and is one of the organisers of the Society’s 2022 UK conference. In her spare time she volunteers with a used book charity of which she is a founder member.

Social Media Links – Twitter: https://twitter.com/katmezzacappa

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherinemezzacappafiction/

https://katherinemezzacappa.ie/

 

BOOK BLURB:

Published by Fairlight Books April 2024

Purchase Links

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Maiden-Florence-Katherine-Mezzacappa/dp/1914148509/

https://www.amazon.com/Maiden-Florence-Katherine-Mezzacappa/dp/1914148509/