7 Must-Read Historical Fiction Novels about the Medici Family If you're a fan of historical fiction and have an interest in Renaissance-era Italy, then chances are you've heard of the Medici family. They were one of the most powerful and influential families during the 15th and 16th centuries in Florence. Their rise to power, intrigues, and patronage of the arts make for fascinating storytelling. If you're looking to dive deeper into the world of the Medici, here are seven must-read historical fiction novels that will transport you to Renaissance Florence. 1. "The Birth of Venus" by Sarah Dunant: Set in 15th-century Florence, this novel follows the life of Alessandra Cecchi, a young girl from a wealthy family who becomes entangled with the Medici. It offers a vivid portrayal of Renaissance Florence and explores the complexities of art, love, and power. 2. "The House of Medici: Its Rise and Fall" by Christopher Hibbert: Although not a fictional novel, this non-fiction book is essential for anyone wanting to delve into the history of the Medici family. It provides a comprehensive account of their rise to power, the political maneuverings within Florence, and their eventual decline. 3. "The Stargazer's Sister" by Carrie Brown: While not solely focused on the Medici family, this novel includes their patronage of astronomy. It tells the story of Caroline Herschel, sister of the famous astronomer William Herschel, and her unique perspective on the world of science and art during the 18th century. 4. "The Botticelli Secret" by Marina Fiorato: This gripping tale follows the life of a young woman named Luciana Vetra as she unravels the mystery behind a lost masterpiece by Sandro Botticelli. Along the way, Luciana encounters many influential figures of the Medici family, revealing secrets and scandals hidden within the art world. 5. "The Agony and the Ecstasy" by Irving Stone: Although more centered on the life of Michelangelo, this classic novel also showcases the close relationship between the artist and the Medici family. It explores the tumultuous political climate of Renaissance Florence and Michelangelo's struggles as he creates some of his most famous works of art. 6. "The Medici Secret" by Michael White: This fast-paced thriller combines historical fiction with a modern-day treasure hunt. The story revolves around a secret left behind by the Medici family, leading an art history professor and an Italian detective on an exciting quest to uncover a hidden masterpiece. 7. "The Miracles of Santo Fico" by Dennis L. Smith: In this novel, the Medici family takes a more peripheral role, but their influence is strongly felt throughout the story. It is set in a small Tuscan village during the Renaissance and narrates the lives of its inhabitants, unveiling the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people amidst the Medici's reign. In addition to these captivating novels, there are numerous online resources for those seeking more information about the Medici family and Renaissance Italy. Websites such as Medici Archive Project and the official Uffizi Gallery website offer a wealth of historical information, images, and documents related to the Medici family's patronage of the arts. Immerse yourself in the world of the powerful Medici family through these captivating novels and historical resources. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply appreciate a good story, these books will transport you to Renaissance Florence and provide a deeper understanding of the Medici family's impact on art, culture, and politics.
Qiao Nian lived in the Qiao family for years. Her biological parents came knocking on the door, and in an instant, the prestigious families in the city knew that the Qiao family had a fake heiress! The real heiress was talented, gentle, and kind-hearted. The fake heiress was ignorant and achieved nothing. Everyone wanted to see how miserable she would be once she was kicked out of the prestigious family and returned to her impoverished life in the mountain valley! Qiao Nian also thought that her biological parents, who came from Luhe County, were poor teachers. Little did she know that her brother drove a luxury car worth millions! Her father taught at Qingda University, and he even had the title of professor! The trashy family all fawned over her grandfather, bowing and scraping... Qiao Nian: ? Hmm... this is not what we agreed upon! Breaking away from the trashy group, Qiao Nian reclaimed her true self. She became the top scorer in the college entrance examination, a popular live-streamer, and the inheritor of intangible cultural heritage... One by one, the masks fell off, and one by one, she dominated the trending searches in the city. The faces of the trashy men, trashy women, and trashy parents turned green with envy. Haters taunted: What's the use of selling a persona? You're just throwing yourself at my brother every day. Qiao Nian: Sorry, I already have someone. The top streamer brother: @Qiao Nian, let me introduce her to everyone. This is my sister. The prestigious grandpa: Darling, why are you working so hard? What kind of bicycle do you want? Grandpa will buy it for you!... The influential figures in Beijing spread rumors about how the eccentric master had a wife hidden away in a golden house. No matter how others provoked, he never took her out to meet people. Don't ask, the answer is always, "My wife is from the countryside and is shy." Until one day, someone saw the usually dignified and aloof master holding onto a girl's slender waist, trapping her in a corner, and with reddened eyes, he whispered, "Baby, when will you give me a proper title?" 【The Fake Heiress Turns Out to be a Real Prestigious Family Member】+【Dual Powerhouses】
464.47 Million words | 2021-03-13 12:20Update
Superpower: Just a little, can't fly or control the elements! X-ray vision: I can see the hidden emerald within the stubborn stones! Gemstone gambling: Make a fortune, why not be a beautiful emerald lady! Love: Beauty or emerald, who do you love more?
131.37 Million words | 2020-09-29 14:32Update
【Sweet Pet / Exquisite Delicate Fairy VS Rich and Powerful Antagonistic Boss】Wen Yan is the future daughter-in-law of Prince Qi Xiuran, the scion of an international conglomerate, cherished in his heart. Rumor has it that she has rosy lips and dazzling teeth, and her smile is as enchanting as a celestial fairy. Only the servants in the Qi family mansion know how willful and unruly this little ancestor can be in private, even the prince himself has to coax her. One day, as Wen Yan, who had escaped once again, looked at the reports about her obedient and lovely image, she sneered and shook her head, refusing to believe or spread rumors. Note: The female lead is delicate and kind-hearted, not a strong female character, she does not engage in fights.
33.78 Million words | 2022-03-03 07:12Update
[The Book Title "He and the Stars are Dazzling" Available for Purchase on Dangdang Website Signed Edition] Unexpectedly, she became pregnant. Despite going to the hospital to terminate the pregnancy, no one dared to perform the operation, forcing her to give birth to the child. Five years later, the child was suddenly abducted, and then, a dignified and domineering man barged into her world. What? He is the child's father? Not only that, but he is also the president of a nation above all? Is this really not a dream?... [Recommended New Book: "Hello, Arrogant Mr. Huo!"]
394.34 Million words | 2022-06-26 20:59Update
Once reborn, I became the third young lady of the An Ding Marquis Manor. Grandmother disapproved, stepmother detested, and there were also a group of half-sisters and step-sisters who wished to devour my flesh and consume my bones. The sister I relied on for survival since childhood sacrificed herself by marrying my paralyzed brother-in-law in order to restore the marquis title. Now, it's my turn.
151.77 Million words | 2023-02-21 23:43Update
Her once-beautiful face destroyed and a severe illness plaguing her, 30-year-old Xu Jinyu lay in a dark and cramped room, waiting for death. When she opened her eyes, she found herself waking up as a 14-year-old girl. She was on a boat heading to the Marquis Wenning's mansion in the capital city, sailing towards the nightmare of her past life. Ah... In this lifetime, her existence would be their worst nightmare!
100.18 Million words | 2020-10-12 21:56Update
【Strong and Clean, Loving Each Other, the Handsome Man and the Snobbish Woman】 Hearing that Mr. Mo's wife is an ignorant little tyrant, onlookers secretly laughed. Trash at studying? Lu Mian presented her top score in the science entrance exam. No talent? Lu Mian can play the piano and paint, demonstrating her skills on the spot. Just a spendthrift? She achieved her small target of earning
235.31 Million words | 2020-07-19 05:30Update
Once awakened from the dream of chaos, returning to a desolate world, the Nine Provinces and Seven Realms all become elusive. Where in the world can accommodate the existence of demons? A city showdown between the Profound Gate and the Great Demons unfolds, as they delve into the mysteries of the heavens and earth. Is the past Great Wilderness a splendid stage for both gods and humans, or a realm of barbarism where survival is only possible through consuming flesh and blood? Completed novels such as "The Dream of the Red Mansion," "Golden Lotus," "The Tale of Immortal Beauty," "The Glorious Palace," and "Rejuvenation Alley" already exist. Friends who are eagerly awaiting further works can start by reading the older ones!
73.59 Million words | 2020-07-11 21:34Update
Abandoned by my aristocratic fiancé? It doesn't matter, I have my own brilliance! The world's treasures, real and fake, are all within my grasp! I sell knowledge, I sell supernatural abilities, but I don't sell regret medicine! But that someone, why do you keep haunting me and following me around? (Completed novels: "Rebirth from the Cocoon" and "Springtime of an Ancient Leftover Lady". Rest assured, my novels are of high quality. Please join me in my new book and kindly vote and bookmark it.) ********* Thanks to Mu Shuiyou for the cover, you're amazing! ******** (Cartoon Ling helped me set up a group for communication. Those who want to join can do so. It's an official subscriber group, so please use
229.54 Million words | 2020-12-08 14:17Update
【Hot new release "Stunning the World After Leaving the Circle" ongoing, welcome to enjoy!】 #Shocking! The top socialite Song Ci married a level-ten disabled man, Han Zhan! # Everyone laughed at Song Ci for blinded eyes, choosing to marry an unknown soldier with disabilities instead of the wealthy and handsome Second Young Master of Chuandong Group. Only she knew that this man would soon become the richest man in Wangdong City. … Song Ci was reborn to the summer of her childhood. Her older sister, who was murdered by her adoptive father in her previous life, was still alive and the man who had disappointed her was desperately pursuing her, while the man who was once out of reach in Wangdong City remained unknown. In this life, Song Ci vowed to expose scumbags, protect her loved ones, and marry the most beautiful love! 【Post-marriage chapter】 One day, a friend asked Song Ci, "How
263.70 Million words | 2022-03-06 14:54Update
Reborn, in this life, I no longer want to be a manipulated princess, I want to be a queen who controls my own destiny! I will not rely on divine retribution for those who harmed me or owe me, I will reclaim what is rightfully mine with my own hands! The TV drama "The Return of the Heiress", adapted from this book, will be aired on Shanghai Oriental, Heilongjiang, Sichuan, and Yunnan TV stations starting on [specific date]. Starring Li Qin, Li Yifeng, and Li Wei.
127.80 Million words | 2020-08-22 18:18Update
【This article has been published under the title "Never Betrayed by Deep Affection from Now On", available at Dangdang and Taobao.】【New book recommendation: My Beloved Wife: Yi Shao, Please Spoil Me!】He revealed before their marriage that he had a car and a house, and both his parents were too busy. She discovered the reality after marriage: luxury cars and numerous properties, while his parents flew around the world for business negotiations. Gu Xiaoxiao once foolishly believed that Chu Yichen was the most suitable person for her, until she discovered that he was her immediate superior at work...
234.62 Million words | 2021-06-24 17:20Update
After enjoying decades of glory, Gu Qingwei finally outlived her philandering husband. She thought she could finally live a worry-free old age. But her damn husband, even in death, wanted her to follow him? Having been virtuous and generous her whole life, Gu Qingwei decided to live more freely, just like when she was young. Huh, how did that deadbeat transform from a playboy to a clingy lover? Gu Qingwei: I've already been reborn, can't you see if I can tolerate you or not! ※ This new novel needs everyone's care, please collect, click, and recommend it~ New book period, full collection and full recommended votes, more updates coming~ (^o^)/~
141.02 Million words | 2021-06-19 06:07Update
Rumors in the martial world: once bitten by the Soul Devouring Talisman, life and death become unpredictable... Unfortunately, she transmigrated into this world before reaching the age of fifteen... In order to avoid becoming a tragic cannon fodder, she can only fight back! Saving people, killing people, she strategizes every step she takes. In palace intrigues and domestic disputes, she excels. She even got caught by the "Soul Devouring Talisman," but what's there to fear? Just when she thought everything was going smoothly, she encountered a bizarre gentleman on her journey. The Gentleman (regretfully picking his nose): Why wasn't it me who got bitten by the "Soul Devouring Talisman"? The Woman (rolling her eyes): Are you crazy? If you want to die, just say so. With a single silver needle, I can fulfill your wish. (evil smirk) The Gentleman (speechless, wiping off sweat): Do you know another saying about the "Soul Devouring Talisman" in the martial world? The Woman stared dumbly with wide eyes. The Gentleman (bitter smile...): In the "Book of Witch Gods," there are four ultimate soul-killing techniques, and one of them is the "Soul Devouring Talisman." The saying goes, "Soul Devouring Talisman,
96.14 Million words | 2022-07-23 09:40Update
She was the chief editor of a real estate online company and was killed by her loved ones in her previous life. Reborn with a vengeance, she seeks revenge. He was the son of a wealthy businessman but was forced to give up his education and dreams of being an architect after his father's suicide. Returning home, he takes over a 'mess'. They meet by chance, collaborate several times, and he decisively marries her. Under his protection, she eliminates her enemies one by one. Just when she is determined to marry him and lead a peaceful life, his rival sends a mysterious challenge. The showdown between two genius architects begins, as a virtual and real combined space door is opened. In an unknowing state, she enters this indistinguishable future space and shockingly, discovers she is pregnant...
39.62 Million words | 2020-08-02 07:08Update
Miss Fang, the second daughter of the Fang family, is married off and left to live alone, much to everyone's delight. Green pine, amber, agate, and cornelian are her dowry, worthless? Will Miss Fang dare to say so? Before the wedding day, her husband returns in glory, with a young wife on the left hand and a newborn child on the right, turning Miss Fang from a lonely widow to a lower-class housewife. Her natal family finds her embarrassing, and her husband's family finds her a burden, so Miss Fang reverts to her old profession. Damaged calligraphy and paintings, chipped porcelain, broken Qingtong... She picks up bargains until her hands ache counting the money. Treasures from the Song Dynasty, she can't bear to sell; white-glazed blue and white porcelain vases are her favorites; purple sandalwood carved screens, painted dancing clay figurines, gold-plated silver vases, bronze galloping horses... As a talented restoration master, she can only bring in more treasures, but not take them out. Mr. Jiang points at the jade pendant hanging around Tang's neck; wearing the token of Mrs. Jiang, she can choose from the Jiang family's collection of a hundred years. Miss Fang is puzzled, isn't this the compensation she received?
241.61 Million words | 2022-11-19 06:13Update
After the 85s transformed into little Lolitas from the 70s, they really couldn't get used to it! No computers, televisions, or smartphones. Arranged marriages? If they couldn't stand it, they would just run away and join the army! (￣)︿(￣) The days in the army were also tough, with the regimental commander joining the fun. What? You want me to marry you? Can't discuss it yet?! →_→ Fine, bring on the money, as long as it's pleasing to the eye, I'll take it! ~~~~(>_
371.65 Million words | 2022-06-23 05:04Update
Legend has it that within the Sheep Fat Jade Purification Bottle of Bodhisattva Guanyin, an entire sea can be contained! Legend has it that the water inside the Sheep Fat Jade Purification Bottle is able to sprinkle upon the mortal realm, turning the earth into a green wilderness and bringing life back to withered trees! A mysterious email and a shoddy jade purification bottle have brought a different life to Qing Lian in Jimo! Legend has it that it all begins here...
112.19 Million words | 2022-02-19 02:06Update
She returned from shopping in Paris, only to find her husband entangled with their close friend. She rushed forward to fight, but was struck on the back of her head by a desk lamp, and everything went black... When she woke up, she found herself sitting in a library, with her high school friend beside her. As she looked up, she saw a young man in a white shirt and khaki pants, who turned out to be her future husband at the age of nineteen. It turned out that she had traveled back to her seventeen-year-old self... Piglet's new book, "Pharmaceutical Manufacturing," is currently trending: In the previous life, her family's fortune was taken away, but in the next life, she seized someone else's fortune and expanded her modern enterprise to create a new generation multinational corporation! Let's cheer and support Su Yi Yi in her journey of striving ^_^ Piglet's Group: Without the need to knock, the door is open, Piglet is waiting at the doorstep.
98.57 Million words | 2021-01-14 21:06Update
A unexpected accident sent lawyer Chen Zheng back ten years, reborn in his half-sister Fang Zixuan's body. It's a story of a sparrow transforming into a phoenix. Even a sparrow can have a proud heart, and a phoenix can have a fallen soul. When everything starts anew in this corrupt aristocratic family, she remains virtuous and pure. He takes pleasure in manipulating people's hearts, recklessly fueling one conflict after another, wanting to see if this little woman truly has a heart as solid as a rock. Only in the end does he realize that she actually has no heart at all... The Buddha said, it is not the butcher's knife that one should let go, but rather one's attachment. He said, what should I do? I truly cannot let go. PS: The book may be called "Little White", but its content is far from naive.
59.81 Million words | 2022-06-07 04:23Update
Su Yingying was 'exchanged' and crossed over to become the second young master of the Qin family. Before she could immerse herself in the joy of abundant wealth, what? She had to disguise herself as a man all the time? She had to face the sadistic elder brother, the brawling mother, and the unruly fiancée! Pity her for this seemingly high-end and classy beginning after crossing over; who knows if what lies ahead is a vulgar, melodramatic, and extremely frustrating ending.
44.44 Million words | 2022-03-21 19:56Update
