Leonardo's Swans

by: Karen Essex

Published by: Doubleday

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

Karen Essex's Leonardo''s Swans is an extraordinary marriage of 15th century political and sexual intrigue revolving around sisters Isabella and Beatrice d'Este.

Isabella, the eldest sister, is beautiful, ambitious and accomplished. Her sister Beatrice grew up undisciplined in her grandfather's home and is awkward, less accomplished and initially lacks political ambitions.

Isabella marries handsome Francesco Gonzaga, a minor aristocrat, who aspires to greatness. Beatrice has been betrothed and marries the future duke of Milan, Ludovico Sforza who loves his mistress and only wants a wife to bear him sons. He is powerful, determined and wants all that he sees, including Isabella.

Isabella initially encourages Ludovico's attention and intends to use his infatuation with her to procure a portrait of herself from resident artist, Leonardo da Vinci.

The young sisters develop a political and sexual rivalry that sets up the first part of the novel for the political intrigue that occurs in the second half as the rulers of France try to invade Italy.

Brothers-in-law Ludovico and Francesco are at odds in their loyalties and grasp for power. It is that lust for power that costs the d'Este sisters everything.

Author Essex weaves a fascinating tale that is made so much better by the stories of Isabella and Beatrice and the inclusion of the idiosyncrasies of Leonardo da Vinci.

I found the political intrigue tedious at times but the author's intensity, wonderful storytelling, intricate descriptions and full-bodied and richly developed characters made Leonardo's Swans a compelling and extraordinary read.

Armchair Interviews says: Leonardo's Swans is more than historical fiction, it is a richly drawn view of the 15th century and those that inhabit the landscape.