Set in Florence in the 1500s, the novel centers around Lucrezia di Cosimo de’Medici, the artistic and largely obscure third daughter of the duke. Her life forever changes when her elder sister dies on the eve of her wedding, thrusting Lucrezia into a marriage to the ruler of Ferrero, Modena, and Reggio. As a young bride, Lucrezia finds herself in an unfamiliar court, amidst some not so enthusiastic about her arrival. Her husband is difficult for her to fathom: sometimes the playful sophisticate; sometimes an art appreciator; sometimes a ruthless politician. With her proximity to power, Lucrezia realizes that her paramount responsibility is to provide an heir for the Ferranese dynasty. Despite her rank and nobility, Lucrezia’s future truly hangs in the balance until then.

With succinct and beautiful language, Maggie O’Farrell creates a compelling and believable portrait of a woman who must use her mind and moxie to survive.