Graceless Heart
Graceless Heart is advertised as Isabel Ibañez’s first foray into adult fiction, having previously written YA novels. I’m not sure that the distinctions between adult and YA are always that clear, and this novel undoubtedly has clear YA vibes. That’s not, though, to detract from the impact of a beautifully written and very engaging work.
The story is set in 1478 in Italy. 23-year-old Ravenna Maffei lives and works in her family’s locanda in Volterra but has secret ambitions to be a sculptor. When Volterra is annexed to the Republic of Florence, Ravenna’s brother, Antonio, joins the fight for freedom but is captured. Shortly afterwards, the wealthy Luni family – allies of the Medici overlords – stage a sculpting competition, so Ravenna sees a way of securing influential patronage and freeing her brother. However, she then meets the mysterious Luni heir – Saturnino – and Ravenna is drawn into political intrigue and a dangerous romance.
The basis of the plot nods to Twilight but with an Italian Renaissance setting. Historical events are presented; but historical purists be warned – they are imaginatively recreated. For example, the assassination of Galeazzo Sforza is depicted although, historically, it took place two years earlier. There are also plenty of fantasy elements: magic stones, witches, ancient curses and vampyres.
The main story focuses on Ravenna but interspersed with other perspectives. There are deeply sensual descriptions of colours, fabrics and food – all captured with an artist’s eye. And the story itself is very exciting: the tensions and betrayals of the complex political situation are admirably presented. The central romance is tantalisingly developed and always interesting. The ending is satisfying and with some wry touches of (sometimes feline) humour.
In all, this is an immensely enjoyable read, and imprecisions of historical accuracy are well compensated for by an imaginatively lush recreation of medieval Italy.
