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The Last Masterpiece
In a race across Nazi-occupied Italy, two women—a German photographer and an American stenographer—hunt for priceless masterpieces looted from the Florentine art collections.
In the summer of 1943, Eva Brunner is taking photographs of Nazi-looted art hidden in the salt mines of the Austrian hinterland. Across the ocean in Connecticut, Josephine Evans is working as a humble typist at the Yale Art Gallery.
When both women are called to Italy to contribute to the war effort, neither imagines she will hold the fate of some of the world’s greatest masterpieces torn from the Uffizi Galleries and other Florentine art collections in her hands.
But as Italy turns from ally to enemy and Hitler’s plan to destroy irreplaceable monuments and works of art becomes frighteningly clear, each woman’s race against the clock—and against one another—might demand more than they were prepared to give.
The Last Masterpiece takes readers on a heart-pumping adventure up the Italian peninsula, where nothing is as it seems and some of the greatest works of art and human achievement are at stake. Who might steal and who might save a work of art—and at what cost?
Inspired by the incredible true story of the Monuments Women, the Fifth Army WACs, and the looted Florentine art collections during World War II, the latest historical novel by USA Today bestselling author and art historian Laura Morelli plunges readers into the heart of war-torn Italy.
In the summer of 1943, Eva Brunner is taking photographs of Nazi-looted art hidden in the salt mines of the Austrian hinterland. Across the ocean in Connecticut, Josephine Evans is working as a humble typist at the Yale Art Gallery.
When both women are called to Italy to contribute to the war effort, neither imagines she will hold the fate of some of the world’s greatest masterpieces torn from the Uffizi Galleries and other Florentine art collections in her hands.
But as Italy turns from ally to enemy and Hitler’s plan to destroy irreplaceable monuments and works of art becomes frighteningly clear, each woman’s race against the clock—and against one another—might demand more than they were prepared to give.
The Last Masterpiece takes readers on a heart-pumping adventure up the Italian peninsula, where nothing is as it seems and some of the greatest works of art and human achievement are at stake. Who might steal and who might save a work of art—and at what cost?
Inspired by the incredible true story of the Monuments Women, the Fifth Army WACs, and the looted Florentine art collections during World War II, the latest historical novel by USA Today bestselling author and art historian Laura Morelli plunges readers into the heart of war-torn Italy.
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2023
446 people are currently reading
14107 people want to read
About the author
Laura Morelli
29 books943 followersThe first time I visited Venice as a wide-eyed teenager, I knew I was supposed to buy Murano glass, but I had no idea why.
All I knew was that I was whisked to the famous “glass island” on an overcrowded, stinky boat. I waited behind two dozen American and Japanese tourists to pay an exorbitant price for a little glass fish—what a bewildering experience!
Still, it was the artistic traditions of the world that inspired me to study the past. Living in Europe and Latin America, I realized that in many places, centuries-old craft traditions are still living traditions.
So began my quest to discover craftspeople passing on a special kind of knowledge to the next generation.
__________________________________________________
Laura Morelli holds a a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University. Her books include Made in Italy, Made in France, and Made in the Southwest, which lead travelers to some of the world’s most authentic experiences. She has written for many national publications including USA Today and the New York Daily News, and has authored a column for National Geographic Traveler online called “The Genuine Article.” She has taught at Trinity College in Rome, Tufts University, Northeastern University, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and has spoken to public audiences across the U.S. and Europe.
All I knew was that I was whisked to the famous “glass island” on an overcrowded, stinky boat. I waited behind two dozen American and Japanese tourists to pay an exorbitant price for a little glass fish—what a bewildering experience!
Still, it was the artistic traditions of the world that inspired me to study the past. Living in Europe and Latin America, I realized that in many places, centuries-old craft traditions are still living traditions.
So began my quest to discover craftspeople passing on a special kind of knowledge to the next generation.
__________________________________________________
Laura Morelli holds a a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University. Her books include Made in Italy, Made in France, and Made in the Southwest, which lead travelers to some of the world’s most authentic experiences. She has written for many national publications including USA Today and the New York Daily News, and has authored a column for National Geographic Traveler online called “The Genuine Article.” She has taught at Trinity College in Rome, Tufts University, Northeastern University, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and has spoken to public audiences across the U.S. and Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 269 reviews
August 24, 2023
Enjoyed the acclaimed movie "The Monuments Men" à la George Clooney-Matt Damon? Well, consider The Last Masterpiece the other half of that story.
Meet Eva Brunner, a German photographer, whose father works for the Nazis, overseeing the storage of (looted) art treasures stored deep in the Austrian salt mines to “save the art from being stolen by the Allies.”
Across the ocean, Josie Evans is working as a secretary at the Yale Gallery in Connecticut when she enlists in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC).
Both women are soon called to Italy to contribute to the war effort.
In a dual 1943 storyline, most of The Last Masterpiece is set in Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside, although some chapters do take place in Rome and Venice.
Eva is helping to photograph and catalog Italy’s most precious artworks that are in need of protection and safeguarding from the Americans who will steal the centuries-old treasures. She is assured that they will be returned to their original owners after the war is won. The reality: Hitler wants the artwork for his Führermuseum.
Meanwhile, the WAC trains Josie as a stenographer and sends her to the European theater where she is assigned to work with the Monuments Men to protect Europe’s most important artistic and cultural treasures.
Author Laura Morelli, an art historian who holds a PhD in Art History from Yale University, includes details about paintings, sculptures, and churches that magically bring the artwork to life on the page.
Morelli also gives us a glimpse inside the WAC, which allowed women to serve overseas and "free a man to fight.”
Over 150,000 American women served during World War II. Initially, the women primarily worked in four fields: cooking, clerical, transport, and medical. Later that was greatly expanded and women were assigned as cryptographers, radio operators, metal workers, parachute riggers, aerial photograph and map analysts, and translators.
Art aficionados and fans of historical fiction will devour this beautifully written book that masterfully highlights how priceless artifacts were looted and protected during WWII.
Meet Eva Brunner, a German photographer, whose father works for the Nazis, overseeing the storage of (looted) art treasures stored deep in the Austrian salt mines to “save the art from being stolen by the Allies.”
Across the ocean, Josie Evans is working as a secretary at the Yale Gallery in Connecticut when she enlists in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC).
Both women are soon called to Italy to contribute to the war effort.
In a dual 1943 storyline, most of The Last Masterpiece is set in Florence and the surrounding Tuscan countryside, although some chapters do take place in Rome and Venice.
Eva is helping to photograph and catalog Italy’s most precious artworks that are in need of protection and safeguarding from the Americans who will steal the centuries-old treasures. She is assured that they will be returned to their original owners after the war is won. The reality: Hitler wants the artwork for his Führermuseum.
Meanwhile, the WAC trains Josie as a stenographer and sends her to the European theater where she is assigned to work with the Monuments Men to protect Europe’s most important artistic and cultural treasures.
Author Laura Morelli, an art historian who holds a PhD in Art History from Yale University, includes details about paintings, sculptures, and churches that magically bring the artwork to life on the page.
Morelli also gives us a glimpse inside the WAC, which allowed women to serve overseas and "free a man to fight.”
Over 150,000 American women served during World War II. Initially, the women primarily worked in four fields: cooking, clerical, transport, and medical. Later that was greatly expanded and women were assigned as cryptographers, radio operators, metal workers, parachute riggers, aerial photograph and map analysts, and translators.
Art aficionados and fans of historical fiction will devour this beautifully written book that masterfully highlights how priceless artifacts were looted and protected during WWII.
August 7, 2023
“L’arte … It’s not just some dusty object. Somehow it’s a living force. It helps us remember who we are.”
“All my life, I believed my camera told the truth. Now I know it only tells a story.”
When Eva Brunner (a German photographer) and Josephine Evans (a typist at the Yale Art Gallery) headed to Italy to contribute to the war effort, neither woman ever thought they’d have the fate of the world’s greatest masterpieces in their hands.
Eva Brunner came to Itlay as a photographer for the Kunsthistorisches Institut in Florence and ended up working for Colonel Langsdorff and the Kunstschutz.
Josephine (Josie) joins the WAC, the Women’s Army Corps, as a stenographer. She becomes part of the Allied frontlines in Italy and her skills are used when several secret repositories are located.
As a pre-order bonus, I was given access to three of Morelli’s lectures on the raiding of the Uffizi Galleries. It was a perfect background to understanding this book and gave me a visual picture of the locations that I could call upon while reading. If you’re considering this book, these courses are worth paying for access prior to reading.
I enjoyed:
✔️a dual storyline featuring women in wartime
✔️a thought-provoking read about ending up on the wrong side of history
✔️the message about discovering that people aren’t always who they portray themselves to be
✔️a look at the power of greed and how it can overpower initially altruistic actions
✔️the message about figuring out who/what you’re NOT before you can become who you are
✔️an examination of photography and how it’s used to persuade and propagandize
✔️an examination of protecting art for different reasons
I learned about the Führermuseum and why everyone was so eager to protect Italy’s works of art.
If you enjoyed The Night Portrait, The Gondola Maker, The Painter’s Apprentice, The Stolen Lady, The Giant or Bridge of Sighs, you’ll enjoy this one. I’ve enjoyed each of these and anticipate Morelli’s next art history-based historical fiction novel with excitement.
“All my life, I believed my camera told the truth. Now I know it only tells a story.”
When Eva Brunner (a German photographer) and Josephine Evans (a typist at the Yale Art Gallery) headed to Italy to contribute to the war effort, neither woman ever thought they’d have the fate of the world’s greatest masterpieces in their hands.
Eva Brunner came to Itlay as a photographer for the Kunsthistorisches Institut in Florence and ended up working for Colonel Langsdorff and the Kunstschutz.
Josephine (Josie) joins the WAC, the Women’s Army Corps, as a stenographer. She becomes part of the Allied frontlines in Italy and her skills are used when several secret repositories are located.
As a pre-order bonus, I was given access to three of Morelli’s lectures on the raiding of the Uffizi Galleries. It was a perfect background to understanding this book and gave me a visual picture of the locations that I could call upon while reading. If you’re considering this book, these courses are worth paying for access prior to reading.
I enjoyed:
✔️a dual storyline featuring women in wartime
✔️a thought-provoking read about ending up on the wrong side of history
✔️the message about discovering that people aren’t always who they portray themselves to be
✔️a look at the power of greed and how it can overpower initially altruistic actions
✔️the message about figuring out who/what you’re NOT before you can become who you are
✔️an examination of photography and how it’s used to persuade and propagandize
✔️an examination of protecting art for different reasons
I learned about the Führermuseum and why everyone was so eager to protect Italy’s works of art.
If you enjoyed The Night Portrait, The Gondola Maker, The Painter’s Apprentice, The Stolen Lady, The Giant or Bridge of Sighs, you’ll enjoy this one. I’ve enjoyed each of these and anticipate Morelli’s next art history-based historical fiction novel with excitement.
August 5, 2023
An American stenographer and a German photographer meet in Italy.
Both women are trying to save the art the Germans are taking and hiding.
We meet Ava who was taking photographs of art work and Josephine who joined the WAC's and is a stenographer.
We travel with both women and learn of what went on and what the plan was for all the art work.
I actually found it difficult to connect to the story line, but Ms. Morelli's research is impeccable, and her writing is detailed and beautiful as always.
Loved the mention of shorthand, the Italian dialogue, the photography information, and the role Italy played during the war and in the art in Florence.
It was very interesting to learn of Monuments Women. I had only heard of Monuments Men.
Art aficionados and art historians will devour this beautifully written book that tells of how art was protected during WWII. 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Both women are trying to save the art the Germans are taking and hiding.
We meet Ava who was taking photographs of art work and Josephine who joined the WAC's and is a stenographer.
We travel with both women and learn of what went on and what the plan was for all the art work.
I actually found it difficult to connect to the story line, but Ms. Morelli's research is impeccable, and her writing is detailed and beautiful as always.
Loved the mention of shorthand, the Italian dialogue, the photography information, and the role Italy played during the war and in the art in Florence.
It was very interesting to learn of Monuments Women. I had only heard of Monuments Men.
Art aficionados and art historians will devour this beautifully written book that tells of how art was protected during WWII. 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
January 17, 2024
Art and historical fiction author Laura Morelli takes us to World War 2 Italy in her newest book “The Last Masterpiece.” Morelli has written novels on numerous topics regarding art history and in this but she focuses on the efforts of the Monuments Men who were working in Italy. Most of us are aware of the Monuments Men because of the book by Robert Edsel, as well as the movie, but those basically concentrated on northern Europe and what was going on in Germany. Less attention has been paid to the Herculean efforts by the men and women behind the scenes trying to save the great masterpieces of Italy. As with most of Morelli’s books she gives us a dual perspective as half the book is narrated by Eva Brunner, a German photographer who has been sent to Florence to document the efforts by the Nazi too “save and preserve” the masterpieces of Florence and Italy. And then we also get to follow Josephine Evans, an American WAC who has become so proficient at her stenography that she is selected to accompany two different art historians and experts in their attempt to retrieve and preserve these same works of art. The book is filled with historical characters, and this fills the book with the realism that one needs to understand what was happening in Italy near the end of the war. Eva begins documenting all the artwork that she encounters in Florence and then accompanies the German Art Institute personnel to photograph these works of art as they're being moved to various locations in Italy. She eventually comes to the realization that the Germans are not preserving these for the Italians, but rather to take back to Germany where her father is actually in charge of one of the leading salt mines where masterpieces are being stored. Josie, who knows nothing about art to begin with, eventually becomes attached to works and comes to understand their importance to the citizens of Florence, Tuscany, and mankind. She becomes part of the rescue efforts to locate these paintings at the very northern border of Italy and Austria, and to make sure that they do not disappear forever. If you don't know much about the Italian version of the Monuments Men then this is the book you want to read to fill you in on the history, but it's also a book that explores the human side of art and how fluid and dangerous the situation had become in Italy after the Italians no longer fell under the control and domination of the Nazis and we're now working either overtly or covertly with the Allies. Morelli's book is fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with relatable characters. It is a book that is hard to put down and one that I heartily recommend.
May 19, 2023
Brilliantly woven and deeply captivating, Laura Morelli's "The Last Masterpiece" is a true gem in historical fiction. This remarkable tale of courage, resilience, and the profound power of art during the chaos of World War II is an absolute page-turner. The narrative is brought to life through the eyes of two dynamic women, Josie and Eva, whose shared mission (despite their respective countries' opposition) to protect Italy's irreplaceable masterpieces drive the riveting plot. Morelli's meticulous research shines, offering readers a vivid and immersive journey into the heart of wartime Italy. The stirring intersection of these two women's stories is nothing short of mesmerizing, highlighting the enduring spirit of humanity amid adversity. An unforgettable blend of art, history, and human drama, "The Last Masterpiece" is a masterpiece in itself, deserving of a standing ovation. A must-read, five-star experience you simply can't miss!
Thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and the author for an early read.
Thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and the author for an early read.
April 24, 2023
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the Arc of this book.
A few years ago, I saw the movie The Monuments Men, based on the true story of this group of Allied men and women given the task of saving and recovering great works of art during WWII. When I heard of this book, by Laura Morelli, on this same topic, I was excited to receive the ARC. The book goes into great detail to follow two fictional woman on opposing sides of the war, both wanting to help save these treasures. I found it fascinating that the author chose to show both sides and how even though both wanted the ultimate goal of saving these masterpieces, they had very different ideas of what that looked like. I am happy that I learned a great deal more about this operation, but I found that I struggled to stay engaged in the story. What I found lacking was the character development. I would have liked to learn more about the two women and to care for them more deeply.
A few years ago, I saw the movie The Monuments Men, based on the true story of this group of Allied men and women given the task of saving and recovering great works of art during WWII. When I heard of this book, by Laura Morelli, on this same topic, I was excited to receive the ARC. The book goes into great detail to follow two fictional woman on opposing sides of the war, both wanting to help save these treasures. I found it fascinating that the author chose to show both sides and how even though both wanted the ultimate goal of saving these masterpieces, they had very different ideas of what that looked like. I am happy that I learned a great deal more about this operation, but I found that I struggled to stay engaged in the story. What I found lacking was the character development. I would have liked to learn more about the two women and to care for them more deeply.
November 29, 2023
Over the years I have read my share of WWII books, both. In-fiction and historical fiction (The Splendid and the Vile, Boys in the Boat, All the Light We Cannot See). More often than not for book club readings or referrals from friends. As a result, I tend not to seek out this genre.
Yet, I made an exception for this novel. I am a bit of an art-o-Phile, thus intrigued due to the reputation of the renowned author and art historian, Laura Morelli. Having visited the beloved city of Firenze on a few occasions, I was aware of the destruction and impact the war had on the historical city. Yet, I was not aware to the extent of what was done to protect the world’s most famous and stunning art pieces. From Michelangelo to Botticelli, Rubens to Giotto, it was a paramount to protect these priceless works.
With WWII raging, precious artifacts in Italy were used as pawns in a game. Unlike other European countries, Italy was considered an occupied ally, meaning the Nazis were initially focused on cataloging and protecting art. The Last Masterpiece is a fascinating look at history from two perspectives, Germany and the United States. Both sides want to protect the artwork, but for different reasons.
The novel is inspired by the true story of the looted Florentine art collections and Morelli leads her readers into the heart of war-torn Italy and what truly was at risk.
Yet, I made an exception for this novel. I am a bit of an art-o-Phile, thus intrigued due to the reputation of the renowned author and art historian, Laura Morelli. Having visited the beloved city of Firenze on a few occasions, I was aware of the destruction and impact the war had on the historical city. Yet, I was not aware to the extent of what was done to protect the world’s most famous and stunning art pieces. From Michelangelo to Botticelli, Rubens to Giotto, it was a paramount to protect these priceless works.
With WWII raging, precious artifacts in Italy were used as pawns in a game. Unlike other European countries, Italy was considered an occupied ally, meaning the Nazis were initially focused on cataloging and protecting art. The Last Masterpiece is a fascinating look at history from two perspectives, Germany and the United States. Both sides want to protect the artwork, but for different reasons.
The novel is inspired by the true story of the looted Florentine art collections and Morelli leads her readers into the heart of war-torn Italy and what truly was at risk.
March 25, 2025
An exquisitely written WWII historical fiction featuring two women, one German and one American, doing everything they can to save works of art. I loved the dichotomy aspect of two women on opposite sides working towards the same goal. There are a lot of books about WWII but this was unique in that way. An intense and heartfelt read for fans of Kristin Hannah and Kristin Harmel.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, William Morrow Paperbacks and Laura Morelli for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, William Morrow Paperbacks and Laura Morelli for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 12, 2023
This is such an amazing historical fiction based on the experiences of two memorable fictional, characters, Josie and Eva during World War II. The book alternates narration between the two, both intent on saving the beautiful, valuable art of Italy from the ravages of war. Josie is assigned to work with the Allied Monuments Men as one of the first group of WAC's to be sent overseas. Eva is a young German photographer, who volunteers to work with the Hitler's army, to document the artwork, never suspecting the true purpose behind the third Reich's movement of the art. The book is fast paced, suspenseful, and full of history. Laura Morelli has expertly blended both the devastation of the war in Italy, the stories of the two women and just how close the world came to loosing beautiful, priceless works of art. Her research for the book is impeccable, and I found myself accessing photos of the artwork described while I read. The author's notes at the end are a must read. I loved the book, the art history, and the story of two brave women. Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for my advanced copy of the book. The opinions of this review are my own.
June 11, 2023
Phenomenal art history of the men & women who saved the world’s most iconic art from destruction during WWII.
The dual narratives of Josie, WAC from US, and Eva, a German photographer, develop the suspenseful plot of saving the art history treasures of Florence and Italy from destruction. Morelli has a brilliant technique of weaving her art history into the world and creating a love of the artist and the artwork. I enjoyed reading the female protagonist’s perspective on the Monuments Men program. I also liked the way Eva’s story showed the cult like following of Nazis , political machinations. And I think the roles of women in war time are highlighted by Paloma, the Florentine woman who helped the Allies and befriended Eva too.
Fabulous novel and engaging history!!
Multiple perspectives give a thoughtful variety of stories from WWII women’s history.
The history of the salt mines in Austria had been mentioned in other books but I learned more about the scope of the work here.
Thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow for the ARC.
The dual narratives of Josie, WAC from US, and Eva, a German photographer, develop the suspenseful plot of saving the art history treasures of Florence and Italy from destruction. Morelli has a brilliant technique of weaving her art history into the world and creating a love of the artist and the artwork. I enjoyed reading the female protagonist’s perspective on the Monuments Men program. I also liked the way Eva’s story showed the cult like following of Nazis , political machinations. And I think the roles of women in war time are highlighted by Paloma, the Florentine woman who helped the Allies and befriended Eva too.
Fabulous novel and engaging history!!
Multiple perspectives give a thoughtful variety of stories from WWII women’s history.
The history of the salt mines in Austria had been mentioned in other books but I learned more about the scope of the work here.
Thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow for the ARC.
August 21, 2023
Two women, from different parts of the world, with one goal….to save the art in Italy. Eva, a German photographer and Josephine, a stenographer from Connecticut, are thrown into a world of intrigue in war torn Italy.
I will be honest, I did not feel a great connection to the characters in this story. But, what kept me reading was the history. This story is so well researched. I am fascinated by the history surrounding many art pieces. So, this novel really captivated me on what actually happened to the art in Italy. I learned so much and now I want to go over there and investigate!
I enjoyed the strong women as well! And to know this is based on the true story of WAC…HUGE PLUS!
Need a wonderful, art history tale…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from the author for a honest review.
I will be honest, I did not feel a great connection to the characters in this story. But, what kept me reading was the history. This story is so well researched. I am fascinated by the history surrounding many art pieces. So, this novel really captivated me on what actually happened to the art in Italy. I learned so much and now I want to go over there and investigate!
I enjoyed the strong women as well! And to know this is based on the true story of WAC…HUGE PLUS!
Need a wonderful, art history tale…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from the author for a honest review.
July 10, 2023
Having read Morelli's past work, I was beyond excited to receive an advance copy of The Last Masterpiece. The author has a beautiful way of crafting history into story and exploring art through fiction. I loved the exploration of the "preservation of art" on both sides of the war. I also really enjoyed a WWII novel that was almost entirely set in Italy -- this isn't a setting that is highlighted as frequently within the genre and I thought that made for an interesting and informative read.
However, I had a difficult time staying engaged for the entirety of the book. The main protagonists felt very similar to me and I occasionally struggled to differentiate them. I've loved Morelli's past novels and while this one had the same attention to detail and gorgeous writing style, unfortunately, I didn't fall in love with it as deeply as I'd hoped to.
However, I had a difficult time staying engaged for the entirety of the book. The main protagonists felt very similar to me and I occasionally struggled to differentiate them. I've loved Morelli's past novels and while this one had the same attention to detail and gorgeous writing style, unfortunately, I didn't fall in love with it as deeply as I'd hoped to.
October 12, 2023
The incredible research truly enhances this novel. I truly appreciated the details tracing where & how these Masterpieces were saved from destruction during WWII.
The diverse perspectives provided by Eva & Josie were poignant. The conflicted loyalties of the Italians themselves were realistic and understandable. Fascinating to read the misinformation & disinformation used by the Germans to persuade the Italians to fear the Allied Forces.
I recommend this novel to fans of HF, WWII fiction, Italian Art History.
The diverse perspectives provided by Eva & Josie were poignant. The conflicted loyalties of the Italians themselves were realistic and understandable. Fascinating to read the misinformation & disinformation used by the Germans to persuade the Italians to fear the Allied Forces.
I recommend this novel to fans of HF, WWII fiction, Italian Art History.
January 15, 2024
I love how I was transported through time and into the world of art and deception during World War II in The Last Masterpiece!
What appealed to you most in this story?
I knew that many people were involved in saving and protecting art from the Nazis, and I loved diving into the world of the Monuments Women and their efforts to thwart the enemy in this fascinating story.
I also loved the unique dual POV and how it featured two women - one an American and the other one a German - and their individual efforts and reasons to protect the art of Italy.
Did the author do her research?
YES! I love reading Morelli’s books just for all the amazing culture, history, and atmosphere. Her research and attention to details is meticulous, and she has the ability to paint words on the page bringing Florence, Italy and all the artwork to life in a way that’s stunningly cinematic.
How was the audiobook?
I love it when there are two narrators for a dual POV story. Stina Nielsen and Christa Lewis brought both women fully to life along with the drama and tense and life-threatening situations they found themselves in.
How was the pace?
Steady, but I was always turning the pages and waiting to see how things would unfold as warfare broke out all around the priceless artwork.
Read if you like:
Dual POV
Suspense
Art History
Florence
Atmosphere
WWII
Based on a true story
Do you recommend this story?
This is a book for history and art lovers as it gave a deep history of the removal and retrieval of Italian works of art in such a fascinating way.
P.S. If you haven’t already, read The Monuments Men or watch the movie. It tells the story of all the behind the scenes work of men and women fighting to keep culture and history from being destroyed.
Thank you, William Morrow, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
What appealed to you most in this story?
I knew that many people were involved in saving and protecting art from the Nazis, and I loved diving into the world of the Monuments Women and their efforts to thwart the enemy in this fascinating story.
I also loved the unique dual POV and how it featured two women - one an American and the other one a German - and their individual efforts and reasons to protect the art of Italy.
Did the author do her research?
YES! I love reading Morelli’s books just for all the amazing culture, history, and atmosphere. Her research and attention to details is meticulous, and she has the ability to paint words on the page bringing Florence, Italy and all the artwork to life in a way that’s stunningly cinematic.
How was the audiobook?
I love it when there are two narrators for a dual POV story. Stina Nielsen and Christa Lewis brought both women fully to life along with the drama and tense and life-threatening situations they found themselves in.
How was the pace?
Steady, but I was always turning the pages and waiting to see how things would unfold as warfare broke out all around the priceless artwork.
Read if you like:
Dual POV
Suspense
Art History
Florence
Atmosphere
WWII
Based on a true story
Do you recommend this story?
This is a book for history and art lovers as it gave a deep history of the removal and retrieval of Italian works of art in such a fascinating way.
P.S. If you haven’t already, read The Monuments Men or watch the movie. It tells the story of all the behind the scenes work of men and women fighting to keep culture and history from being destroyed.
Thank you, William Morrow, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
August 1, 2023
Josephine Evans of the Yale Art Gallery and Eva Brunner, photographer, of Austria are called to Italy by both sides in WWII, to catalogue and photograph the Italian masterpieces in Florence and other parts of Italy that will be crated and sent to hiding places for safety.
Eva becomes disillusioned when she realizes what will really happen to the art work taken by the Nazis and hidden all over Italy. Josephine wonders where many of the masterpieces are hidden by the Germans before the Allied forces get there.
The two women catalog and photograph, but what happens in the end takes them to different places psychologically, Eva to delight when Florence regains most of its art work, and Josephine to a decision that is mystifying, at least to this reader.
I learned a lot about the history of the war in Florence as it related to the pilfering and destruction of works of art. I also was amazed that both sides were responsible for some of the bombing that destroyed buildings and artifacts. I was dismayed to learn that the Nazis destroyed all the old bridges, works of art, over the Arno River in Florence, except for the Ponte Vecchio.
The effects of war was brought home in this excellent historical novel written by an art historian and historical novelist.
Eva becomes disillusioned when she realizes what will really happen to the art work taken by the Nazis and hidden all over Italy. Josephine wonders where many of the masterpieces are hidden by the Germans before the Allied forces get there.
The two women catalog and photograph, but what happens in the end takes them to different places psychologically, Eva to delight when Florence regains most of its art work, and Josephine to a decision that is mystifying, at least to this reader.
I learned a lot about the history of the war in Florence as it related to the pilfering and destruction of works of art. I also was amazed that both sides were responsible for some of the bombing that destroyed buildings and artifacts. I was dismayed to learn that the Nazis destroyed all the old bridges, works of art, over the Arno River in Florence, except for the Ponte Vecchio.
The effects of war was brought home in this excellent historical novel written by an art historian and historical novelist.
June 23, 2023
Two women, one German and one American, are caught up in the same quest from opposite sides of the battlefield. Eva works at a German art institute in Florence and has been tasked with cataloguing all the art that is being taken out of Italy to save it from certain destruction. She truly believes that all of it will be returned at war's end. Jo is working for the American Monuments Men as they make their way up from the south of Italy desperate to find all the art they fear will go into Hitler's private museum or destroyed. Both women will have their beliefs challenged, both will find love and both will risk everything to protect the priceless art they know can never be replaced. Based on fact, peppered with art history, salted with a profound love of Italy and a pinch of romance, this is a sure bet for WWII history buffs, art historians and readers of stories of the brave women behind the men during war. My thanks to the publisher for the advance copy.
June 23, 2023
No one can write about Florentine art history like Laura Morelli. Her knowledge art in Florence through the ages is second to none, but none of that overwhelms the story she's telling. In this case, it's the story of two women on opposite sides of WWII but with the same goal of saving the art of Florence from being destroyed. Morelli paints a vivid picture of Florence before and during the war--one that makes me nostalgic for the pre-war Florence we'll never see.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance reader's copy.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance reader's copy.
September 9, 2023
I enjoyed the story in this, protecting the art of Europe (and especially Italy), was paramount to so many people during WWII. And I really liked how the POVs were alternating between an American and a German who are both fighting to preserve the art in Florence.
But I do think that the story got pretty slow after a while, because it got to be relatively repetitive. And while I liked it, there was quite a stretch in the middle that I felt like I was zoned out while reading.
But I do think that the story got pretty slow after a while, because it got to be relatively repetitive. And while I liked it, there was quite a stretch in the middle that I felt like I was zoned out while reading.
June 27, 2025
Historical fiction, true, but this story was based on some real events of Monuments Men and Women from WWII Italy and their Italian counterparts - the Superintendents of the Italian masterpieces. As well as the Germans who were told that they were working to keep the art safe for the Italians, but in reality Hitler was ultimately collecting them for his museum. Because we had studied the Renaissance not too long ago and because I teach art at co-op, I knew many of the artists whose works they were trying to protect. For me, this gave greater depth to the story. This was not a page turner, which is not my norm or usually my five star books. However, this instead was a fascinating journey of the Allied march through Italy, the German retreat, and the race on the Allies part to save these great works of art from the Third Reich, destruction or plunder. It was also about the political battle as the Germans and the Fascists spread lies and propaganda about the advancing Allies, and their intent to help the Italians and save the art. Once I caught on to how the viewpoints of the story were going to go, I enjoyed seeing each side through Josie and Eva’s eyes and watching it all come together.
August 23, 2023
Yet another unique perspective on WWII from the Italian people to the people involved in the theft of artwork from both the German and American sides. There was lots to learn in this book, I am glad I read it.
May 30, 2023
There is much to like about The Last Masterpiece. Since Laura Morelli's most recent historic novel focuses on the efforts to rescue Italian art during WW II, perhaps the title needs a plural ending--Masterpieces. This seems like a much longer novel than it is. It was very slow and quite detailed, as if Morelli was including every page of research that she certainly completed. The Last Masterpiece is very thoroughly researched.
The two women characters are meant to create contrasting lives. Eva, who is Austrian, works to help the Nazis with their program to "rescue" art. She is incredibly naive and quite idealistic. As a result, readers are meant to understand that she has lived a very isolated life. Eva's focus is photography. As Eva's contrast, Josie is an American, whose work is as a stenographer. Josie is realistic about her job. She learns Italian and learns about the art that the Nazis are trying to steal. Her mind is open and eager to learn. It takes Eva a very long time to understand what the Nazis are doing in Italy.
The research for The Last Masterpiece is impressive, but it also bogs down the story. Readers get lost in all the history, which at times reads more like non-fiction than fiction. Readers will learn a lot about the Nazi effort to steal art, which occurred in every country they occupied. But in the effort to include so much research, the actual novel gets lost. There is much in Morelli's novel to teach readers, but I worry there will also be a tendency by readers to skim through whole sections of the novel. Historical fiction requires a fine balance between history and fiction. I wish that Morelli had been more aware of the imbalance in The Last Masterpiece.
I do want to thank the author and publisher, William Morrow Paperbacks, for providing this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. I do think that many readers will find these two women's lives interesting and their stories captivating. Thank you also to NetGalley for listing this novel.
The two women characters are meant to create contrasting lives. Eva, who is Austrian, works to help the Nazis with their program to "rescue" art. She is incredibly naive and quite idealistic. As a result, readers are meant to understand that she has lived a very isolated life. Eva's focus is photography. As Eva's contrast, Josie is an American, whose work is as a stenographer. Josie is realistic about her job. She learns Italian and learns about the art that the Nazis are trying to steal. Her mind is open and eager to learn. It takes Eva a very long time to understand what the Nazis are doing in Italy.
The research for The Last Masterpiece is impressive, but it also bogs down the story. Readers get lost in all the history, which at times reads more like non-fiction than fiction. Readers will learn a lot about the Nazi effort to steal art, which occurred in every country they occupied. But in the effort to include so much research, the actual novel gets lost. There is much in Morelli's novel to teach readers, but I worry there will also be a tendency by readers to skim through whole sections of the novel. Historical fiction requires a fine balance between history and fiction. I wish that Morelli had been more aware of the imbalance in The Last Masterpiece.
I do want to thank the author and publisher, William Morrow Paperbacks, for providing this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. I do think that many readers will find these two women's lives interesting and their stories captivating. Thank you also to NetGalley for listing this novel.
June 6, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It gave a deep history of the removal and retrieval of Italian works of art. I do wish the character development had been stronger at the beginning of the book; it took awhile until I finally felt that I understood each woman's motivations. However, the descriptions of the cities, especially Florence, brought me to the time and place.
June 12, 2023
I'm finding this review difficult. While I loved learning more about this time of history, WW II and the work to first protect the magnificent art, and then the quest to retrieve the stolen art, I found the character development and surrounding story lacking.
We are drawn into the story via two perspectives. That of Eva, a young German, girl, a photographer who volunteered to go and photograph Italian art, so her 16 year old could stay home and continue hiding art in the Salt mines in Austria.
The second young girl, Josie, is a US WAC who enlisted on a whim with her friend. She is escaping extreme poverty and her mother's illness. The WAC's teach her stenographer. She excels and is assigned to work with an art historian looking to protect the art in Italy. She begins to also pick up as much Italian as she can while devouring and information available on pieces of art.
Two great perspectives, yet I was left looking for more. At length, we learn about Eva's photographing of works and Josie's cataloging of art that should be on Italy. Scattered in between, we learn about Josie escaping from her mother's illness. She can't write to her. Eventually, she does, but by this time, her mother then dies.
Eva has been indoctrinated that the Allies are going to destroy the artwork. Then she learns the Germans are stealing the artwork and that Hitler prefers destroying all rather than letting the ensuing forces.
Storyline all works for me, but the depth of the characters is missing. It was hard to get through the book. I didn't have the pull to keep seeing what is next.
Thank you Goodreads for the Giveaway!!
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We are drawn into the story via two perspectives. That of Eva, a young German, girl, a photographer who volunteered to go and photograph Italian art, so her 16 year old could stay home and continue hiding art in the Salt mines in Austria.
The second young girl, Josie, is a US WAC who enlisted on a whim with her friend. She is escaping extreme poverty and her mother's illness. The WAC's teach her stenographer. She excels and is assigned to work with an art historian looking to protect the art in Italy. She begins to also pick up as much Italian as she can while devouring and information available on pieces of art.
Two great perspectives, yet I was left looking for more. At length, we learn about Eva's photographing of works and Josie's cataloging of art that should be on Italy. Scattered in between, we learn about Josie escaping from her mother's illness. She can't write to her. Eventually, she does, but by this time, her mother then dies.
Eva has been indoctrinated that the Allies are going to destroy the artwork. Then she learns the Germans are stealing the artwork and that Hitler prefers destroying all rather than letting the ensuing forces.
Storyline all works for me, but the depth of the characters is missing. It was hard to get through the book. I didn't have the pull to keep seeing what is next.
Thank you Goodreads for the Giveaway!!
🩷🩷🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
Inspired by the real-life Monuments Men in Florence, Italy, during WWII (1943-1945), The Last Masterpiece is told from the perspectives of two unlikable women on opposing sides of the war: Josephine, an American typist for the Monuments Men, and Eva, a German collaborator tasked with documenting Florence's greatest art treasures.
The story could have been more thrilling as a race against time to rescue countless sculptures, paintings, and other valuables hidden from the Nazis. As a fan of historical fiction, I was initially drawn to this synopsis. While the dual narrative format has potential, the protagonists blend together, ultimately lacking depth and complexity. The plot suffers from excessive redundancy, limited character development, and a lack of editing. Additionally, the exhaustive details about beautiful, priceless artworks not visually represented in the book feel overwhelming and distracting. While the premise of a race against time to save countless artworks being stolen by the Nazis under Hilter’s orders, the execution falls short. The dual narrative, though promising, is hampered by insufferable protagonists lacking any depth or complexity. The plot suffers from excessive redundancy, limited character development, and poor editing. Moreover, the exhaustive descriptions of beautiful art, absent of visual representation, feel distracting and tedious. 1.5/5
The story could have been more thrilling as a race against time to rescue countless sculptures, paintings, and other valuables hidden from the Nazis. As a fan of historical fiction, I was initially drawn to this synopsis. While the dual narrative format has potential, the protagonists blend together, ultimately lacking depth and complexity. The plot suffers from excessive redundancy, limited character development, and a lack of editing. Additionally, the exhaustive details about beautiful, priceless artworks not visually represented in the book feel overwhelming and distracting. While the premise of a race against time to save countless artworks being stolen by the Nazis under Hilter’s orders, the execution falls short. The dual narrative, though promising, is hampered by insufferable protagonists lacking any depth or complexity. The plot suffers from excessive redundancy, limited character development, and poor editing. Moreover, the exhaustive descriptions of beautiful art, absent of visual representation, feel distracting and tedious. 1.5/5
April 21, 2023
3.5 I signed up for this book, thinking it would give more information about the stolen and lost works of art during WWII. And while it is about that. I find it was not as satisfying as I had hoped. There are 2 young women working, for different sides, to move to safety and preserve priceless works of art in Italy. One is a photographer for Germany. The other is clerical working for the Americans. As the campaign moves forward, each begins to question their role and loyalty to the project. I found neither character well developed nor compelling. The writing has a YA quality to it.There wasn't the appreciation of the works of art I was hoping for. Granted, Germany viewed acquisition of these items as more of smash and grab operation, rather than having true reverence for these works of art. Maybe that is the feeling the reader is supposed to feel.. If you are new to this part of WWII it is a good introduction to the topic of stolen art and worth the read. However I am familiar with this operation and was hoping for a more in depth foray into the works themselves. Thanks Net Galley for this ARC opportunity
March 22, 2024
The Last Masterpiece is about the fight to protect Italian art during WWII. As the author has a PhD in art history, the details about the art are meticulous and very interesting. I enjoyed the history aspect as well, especially learning about the contributions women made during the war. However, the storyline was SLOW and repetitive, and the two different points of view were hard to keep straight. I wish there had been more character development and that the plot could have moved a little faster.
January 9, 2024
Slow and uninspiring. Lists of artworks w no illustrations, why?
December 25, 2023
It’s kind of amazing how little actually happens plot wise. The story is very repetitive. Towards the late middle/end of the book it starts to feel slow.
July 10, 2023
I received an ARC of this book via Adventures by the Book.
I wrote this review in collaboration with bookish event company Adventures By the Book based in Southern California, where I am interning. You can check out ABTB https://adventuresbythebook.com/
This author is a member of Novel Network where you can reach out to them for an appearance in your book club for free! Find more information about Novel Network at: https://novelnetwork.com/our-authors/
Upcoming events featuring this author: Fall into Reading PitchFest: a FREE “Choose Your Fall/Winter 2023 Reads” virtual Adventure with 15 fan-favorite authors on August 24
Link to event: https://adventuresbythebook.com/event...
___________________________________________________________
This book will make any history and art lover giddy with excitement. Laura Morelli balances war and art beautifully in this stunning revelation of the power of beauty amidst a worldwide crisis. Morelli keeps us reading as we wait patiently for answers. Based on a true story, this novel brings to light the inspiring true story of the Monuments Women and the looted Florentine art collections during World War II with vigor and triumph. Morelli guides us as we dive into Italy in the midst of chaos and violence, and teaches us how to find beauty amidst pain in her breathtaking new novel.
I wrote this review in collaboration with bookish event company Adventures By the Book based in Southern California, where I am interning. You can check out ABTB https://adventuresbythebook.com/
This author is a member of Novel Network where you can reach out to them for an appearance in your book club for free! Find more information about Novel Network at: https://novelnetwork.com/our-authors/
Upcoming events featuring this author: Fall into Reading PitchFest: a FREE “Choose Your Fall/Winter 2023 Reads” virtual Adventure with 15 fan-favorite authors on August 24
Link to event: https://adventuresbythebook.com/event...
___________________________________________________________
This book will make any history and art lover giddy with excitement. Laura Morelli balances war and art beautifully in this stunning revelation of the power of beauty amidst a worldwide crisis. Morelli keeps us reading as we wait patiently for answers. Based on a true story, this novel brings to light the inspiring true story of the Monuments Women and the looted Florentine art collections during World War II with vigor and triumph. Morelli guides us as we dive into Italy in the midst of chaos and violence, and teaches us how to find beauty amidst pain in her breathtaking new novel.
July 15, 2023
Two women on opposites sides of the war, each with the same goal - to save the art of Italy - but which side of history are they on?
“𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘭, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘍𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘸 𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘺 . . . 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸. 𝘓’𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦 . . . 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘣𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘴 𝘶𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦.”
My take: As an art lover, and as someone who has read and enjoyed Morelli’s past works, I was excited to receive an advanced copy of The Last Masterpiece. Her reasearch and love for Italian art certainly shines through. However, with all the characters and changing locations, it was hard for me to keep everything straight, and the characters didn’t feel as well developed as in past books. Additionally, while this novel focuses on recovering looted Italian art, I didn’t get the descriptions and appreciation for the art like in her previous works. It just seemed a never-ending repetitive list of art being moved, searched for, etc.
I did enjoy the novel, but I’m not sure someone without a little knowledge of WWII art history would.
“𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘭, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘍𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘸 𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘺 . . . 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸. 𝘓’𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦 . . . 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘣𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘴 𝘶𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦.”
My take: As an art lover, and as someone who has read and enjoyed Morelli’s past works, I was excited to receive an advanced copy of The Last Masterpiece. Her reasearch and love for Italian art certainly shines through. However, with all the characters and changing locations, it was hard for me to keep everything straight, and the characters didn’t feel as well developed as in past books. Additionally, while this novel focuses on recovering looted Italian art, I didn’t get the descriptions and appreciation for the art like in her previous works. It just seemed a never-ending repetitive list of art being moved, searched for, etc.
I did enjoy the novel, but I’m not sure someone without a little knowledge of WWII art history would.
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