Set in the time of the wealthy Medicis in 16th century Italy, this raucous epistolary novel is a murder whodunnit at its heart. Who killed the artist Pimponael found dead in Florence’s holy chapel, his frescoes unfinished. A chorus of characters adds drama to engaging, if sometimes dizzying effect. The real treat is in uncovering the larger undercurrents: the increasingly conservative social mores of the time; the geopolitical maneuvering between the Italians, French and the Spaniards; the stirrings of revolution; and the manipulation of women as mere property to be used for strategic gain. A thoroughly enjoyable if manic romp.
