HISTORICAL
FICTION
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OUTSTANDING BOOK
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Debbie
Wiley
Book Reviews |
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Lucrezia de’ Medici, by Bronzino, generally believed to be My Last
Duchess
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Alfonso II d'Este by Girolamo da Carpi
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Barbara of Austria
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BOOK
ILLUMINATIONS
From Debbie Wiley Book Reviews
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The Second Duchess
by Elizabeth Loupas
Barbara
of Austria is determined to be the dutiful second wife of Alfonso
d’Este, the Duke of Ferrara. Unfortunately, the court rumors
surrounding the death of his first wife, Lucrezia de’Medici have piqued
her interest. But is the Duke the one who killed Lucrezia? What will be
his reaction to Barbara’s questions?
Elizabeth Loupas uses Robert Browning’s poem, My Last Duchess, as the
context for her historical tale of Barbara and Alfonso’s marriage. I’ve
always liked Browning’s poetry but Elizabeth Loupas brings new life to
it. The vivid historical details are intricately interwoven with the
mystery behind Lucrezia’s death. However, what makes THE SECOND DUCHESS
truly stand out is the inclusion of Lucrezia’s perspective. Elizabeth
Loupas creates a ghostlike condition called “immobili”, a condition in
which Lucrezia can see all that is occurring but she is unable to
physically interact in any way with the other characters.
Barbara is a fascinating heroine as well. Barbara strives to follow all
the rules of deportment and yet her curiosity is insatiable. Her
control even in some of the most awful situations is stunning and
provides a vivid picture of just how complex and tricky court life
could be. Quite frankly, Barbara’s ability to understand some of
Alfonso’s actions and abusive behavior portrays the true status and
worth of women during the Renaissance time period. Alfonso’s role is
more troubling. Is he just a man of his time or something more
sinister? Elizabeth Loupas does a phenomenal job at bringing her
characters and the time period to life in THE SECOND DUCHESS.
THE SECOND DUCHESS is simply outstanding. Elizabeth Loupas’ tale
engages the imagination while providing a stunning portrayal of women
in Renaissance Italy. Bravo!
Publisher: New
American Library
(March 2011)
Reviewed
by Debbie, Debbie Wiley Book Reviews
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