I Am Venus: A Novel

By: Bárbara Mujica

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Synopsis: This fictional account of the seventeenth-century Spanish painter&’s life is &“a very enjoyable read . . . A portrait of Velázquez and a meditation on love&” (Washington Independent Review of Books). Narrated by the mysterious model who posed for Rokeby Venus, Diego Velázquez&’s only surviving female nude, I Am Venus is the riveting account of a great artist&’s rise to prominence, set against the backdrop of political turmoil and romantic scandal. A sweeping story of scandal and passion, and a vivid recreation of a corrupt kingdom on the brink of collapse, I Am Venus is a thrilling novel that brings to life the public and private worlds of Spain&’s greatest painter. &“A well-plotted read with engaging characters and rich detail. Fans of Tracy Chevalier and Elizabeth Kostova as well as art history buffs will enjoy Mujica&’s interpretation.&” —Library Journal &“A worthwhile read . . . Mujica continues her realistic representation by loading the text with rich historical detail [that] instantly creates a sensory world for her readers to inhabit.&” —Booklist &“Mujica&’s prose is vigorous and intense, and the story is paradoxically both dark and illuminating.&” —Kirkus Reviews