All three books in Donna Russo Morin's 'Da Vinci's Disciples', now available in one volume!
Portrait Of A Conspiracy: In 15th century Florence, five women and a legendary artist weave together a plot that could bring peace — or get them all killed. Viviana, Fiammetta, Isabetta, Natasia and Mattea are not allowed to be public with their painting skills. When a sixth member of their group, Lapaccia, goes missing, the women venture out into the dangerous streets to find their friend. Under Leonardo da Vinci's tutelage that they flourish as artists and access some of the highest, most secretive places in Florence, unraveling one conspiracy as they build another in its place.
The Competition: Da Vinci's Disciples show talent equal to that of any man, but in Renaissance Florence they must hide their skills. A commission to paint a fresco is announced, and Florence’s artists each seek the fame and glory this lucrative job will provide. The women speak to Lorenzo de’ Medici himself and submit a bid for the right to paint it, but the church will not stand for women painting. Even the women themselves are hesitant; the attention they bring upon themselves will put them all in danger.
The Flames of Florence: As the infamous “Bonfire of the Vanities” looms, Da Vinci's Disciples must maneuver through a city torn apart by religious fanaticism. With Leonardo mentoring them, they face the stifling ideals of Fra Girolamo Savonarola, a fervent figure whose campaign poses a threat to the very existence of art and literature. Together with the young sculptor Michelangelo, the artists risk everything, launching an underground operation to smuggle precious works out of the clutches of destruction in Florence.
