The Night Portrait: A Novel of World War II and da Vinci's Italy

Laura Morelli

Sep 2020 · Sold by HarperCollins

About this ebook

USA Today Bestseller

"This is a truly original novel that has earned its place among my favorite works of historical fiction."--Jennifer Robson, USA Today bestselling author of The Gown

An exciting, dual-timeline historical novel about the creation of one of Leonardo da Vinci's most famous paintings, Portrait of a Lady with an Ermine, and the woman who fought to save it from Nazi destruction during World War II.

Milan, 1492: When a 16-year old beauty becomes the mistress of the Duke of Milan, she must fight for her place in the palace—and against those who want her out. Soon, she finds herself sitting before Leonardo da Vinci, who wants to ensure his own place in the ducal palace by painting his most ambitious portrait to date.

Munich, World War II: After a modest conservator unwittingly places a priceless Italian Renaissance portrait into the hands of a high-ranking Nazi leader, she risks her life to recover it, working with an American soldier, part of the famed Monuments Men team, to get it back. 

Two women, separated by 500 years, are swept up in the tide of history as one painting stands at the center of their quests for their own destinies.

Ratings and reviews

The Night Portrait by Laura Morelli is Split Time Historical Fiction that revolves around a painting by Leonardo Di Vinci. When I was invited to read and review this book I hesitated for awhile. I was not familiar with the author and my pile of books to be read was high. After reading the description I was hooked and put everything else aside until I read the last word including the acknowledgments and historical information. This book has historical information about art, World War II, people, Europe and life during each time period. It is well researched with exciting incidents and conflicts that add to the real historical events. The author brings each character, event and place to life with vivid details. I’m delighted to find a new favorite author. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars

About the author

Laura Morelli holds a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University and is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling historical novelist. Laura has taught college students in the U.S. and in Italy. She has covered art and authentic travel for TED-Ed, National Geographic Traveler, Italy Magazine, CNN Radio, and other media. Laura is the author of the popular Authentic Arts guidebook series that includes Made in Italy. Her historical novels, including The Night Portrait, The Gondola Maker, and The Last Masterpiece, bring the stories of art history to life.