Where to begin? Starting this book was difficult in that I knew I'd have to devote many days to it. I also knew that it was going to have to make me think! Well, the above came true, but I certainly was not disappointed in any way.

I must say that the beginning was a bit slow, and I didn't realize the full connection between Maureen's life and the lives of the Medici family, especially Lorenzo, the "father" of the Renaissance period. But, of course, it all came clear to me. I really enjoy the way the author is able to connect fact and fiction so beautifully. McGowan is so thorough in her research and is able to weave such a detailed and complex web of fiction into what is really very interesting history!

Of course, most of the story has to do with the heretical teachings with Mary Magdalene at the center, which is McGowan's constant theme throughout the Magdalene Line series. I wonder just how widespread these teachings of "The Way of Love" were. Perhaps there are more "heretics" in the present day than we realize.

I was surprised that there wasn't more story between Maureen and Berenger, but I truly enjoyed all the history and drama of the Medici era of the Renaissance. To think how much art and literature was created during this short time period (1440-1490) is staggering, and it inspired me to go online and study some of Botticelli's most famous works. I was also amazed that not only did Botticelli create for Lorenzo, but Leonardo and Michelangelo did too. Donatello was sponsored by Lorenzo's grandfather, Cosimo! An amazing time in art history!

Thank you Ms. McGowan for bringing this time period to life so beautifully!

Highly recommended.