THE STOLEN LADY
by LAURA MORELLI
Books have the power to transport us, to allow us to escape to another time and place just through the written word. That’s the closest thing to magic I know! THE STOLEN LADY by Laura Morelli is a historical fiction novel that has as many layers as a beautiful Renaissance painting. From 16th century Florence, (Italy) to World War II France, this is an exceptionally well researched story about a handful of courageous, resourceful employees struggling to keep the masterpieces of the Louvre out of the hands of the Nazis. The fast pace, intriguing characters (several based on actual historical persons,) and clever plot connecting them all, makes for a most enjoyable novel.
If you’re a lover of art history and have an interest in how Leonardo DaVinci’s created his Mona Lisa… if you want to be pulled into the spell of the painting’s creation, meet the enigmatic woman who became Leonardo’s most famous subject and learn of the dangers that nearly destroyed her portrait…in addition to a view of DaVinci himself…his lifestyle and how he utilized his engineering and scientific genius in other areas, this book is for you.
I especially appreciated that there are some supplemental materials at the end of the book that told about Morellli’s extensive research. The section entitled “In Lucie’s Words”, memoir excerpts from Lucie Mazauric, Louvre archivist, is worth a read. This novel’s intertwining of narratives and perspectives gave me a deeper appreciation and understanding of the life, times and survival of Mona Lisa. THE STOLEN LADY offers some impressive storytelling backed by solid research. Highly recommended!!
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