In one of the best books I've read in a long time, Susan Meissner shares the story of Meg, a girl who has dreamed of visiting Florence since she first saw the painting in her grandmother's house. Working for a book publisher, Meg is connected with Sophia, an older woman who believes she is part of the Medici families. Sophia is writing the stories of Florence and of Nora, the Medici princess who now speaks to Sophia through the sculptures and art of the city. As their stories begin to intersect, each woman must find herself what a renaissance truly is.
Although slow-moving, this book is amazing. The characters are beautifully written and come alive as they face the harsh reality they have avoided by living fantasy. I loved the way their stories were interwoven through Nora's journals (perhaps, that wasn't clear to me), Sophia's novel, and Meg's narrative. Though all came to age at different times and different places, their journeys all mirrored one another's.
What stood out most was the part art played in the story. The history, the stories, the culture they contain helped mold the story, and although I've never had a desire to visit Florence, I do now.
Fans of Meissner will enjoy this beautiful story of three women's journey to find the girl in the glass.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
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