Book Review: The Towers of Tuscany

Book: The Towers of Tuscany by Carol M. Cram

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

Sofia Barducci is trained in secret as a painter in her father’s workshop during a time when women did not paint openly. She loves her work, but her restless spirit leads her to betray her extraordinary gifts to marry a man who comes to despise her for not producing a son.

After Sofia’s father is crushed by his own fresco during an attack motivated by a vendetta, Sofia realizes she must escape her loveless marriage. She flees to Siena, where, disguised as a boy, she paints again. When her work attracts the notice of a nobleman who discovers the woman under the dirty smock, Sofia is faced with a choice that nearly destroys her.

Meticulously researched settings and compelling characters are united with a strong heroine in this rich portrait of medieval Italy.



Rating: 1 star (Did Not Finish)

Review:

There is no doubt that this is a very well researched book especially in regards to the art but the problem is it's just not that interesting. I couldn't find anything to connect to the characters that would make me care about them or the story. And I found that the story fizzled early on from the less than stellar plot to the overly descriptive writing. There were some scenes that started to feel repetitive with long and drawn out descriptions of the way the paint was made.

I like art and I thought the premise for this book seemed interesting but reading the story was a real letdown because it was very boring.

The story is about Sofia who is a very good painter but during the 1300s women were not allowed to pursue a career in the arts. So, she paints for her father's studio and do little side painting jobs for him. Sofia dreams of having her own work commissioned but that's not going to happen. Another hindrance for Sofia is her boorish husband Giorgio Carelli who waste their money gambling while his business is going downhill.

I stopped reading at the part where the wedding she was attending was attacked. The writing didn't inspire me to keep reading and I didn't have the desire to force myself to continue reading.