The first novel by Italian author Chira Montani, “The Mystery of the Cursed Fresco,” is a fascinating dive into 15th-century Florence, where art meets power plots in a world where everything is to be created.
Rome, 1458. The renowned painter Piero della Francesca receives a worrying letter from his old friend, Domenico Veniziano. Upon arriving in Florence, Piero learns that Domenico is accused of murdering one of his clients, a wealthy banker, for whom Domenico was creating a fresco. Lavinia, Domenico’s distressed but determined niece, decides to do everything to prove her uncle’s innocence. She finds a valuable ally in the mysterious Piero, who believes there is a conspiracy against him and Domenico. A plot that has its roots in a past event linked to an unfinished fresco cycle…
In her first novel, Chira Montani offers us a historical thriller set in the heart of the Italian Renaissance with a young female heroine who wants to break free from her condition. Indeed, at that time, it was frowned upon for a woman to be a painter, but Lavinia, passionate and talented, trains in secret in her uncle’s workshop. The investigation she carries out with Piero della Francesca will reveal her and turn her into a confident woman. Thanks to this heroine, whom we take pleasure in following and watching evolve, “The Mystery of the Cursed Fresco” is imbued with femininity. But Chira Montani not only knows how to create a captivating heroine, she also skillfully constructs a mysterious and comprehensive investigation against a backdrop of political conspiracies.
Chiara Montani’s beautiful, descriptive, and detailed writing will transport you to Medici Florence, superbly recreated, allowing you to wander through this mythical city in a very vivid way. Accompanied by a strong plot in the troubled context of the time, “The Mystery of the Cursed Fresco” is a gripping and successful historical thriller!
