Shortlisted for the HWA Gold Crown Award 2025
Florence, 1584. Rumours are spreading about the virility of a prince marrying into the Medici family. Orphan Giulia,innocent to the part she must play, is chosen to put an end to the gossip. Years later, Giulia has found happiness and freedom. But when a threat arrives from a sinister figure from her youth, she must take control of her own life.
Florence, 1584. Rumours are spreading about the virility of a prince marrying into the powerful Medici family. Orphan Giulia is chosen to put an end to the gossip. In return she will keep her life - and start a new one with a dowry and her own husband. Cloistered since childhood and an innocent in a world ruled by men, Giulia reluctantly agrees, only to be drawn under the control of the Medicis' lecherous minister.

Years later, married and with a growing family, Giulia hopes she has finally escaped the legacy of her past. But when a threat arrives from a sinister figure from her youth, she must finally take control of events - and become the author of her own story.

Based on true events and reminiscent of The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell, The Maiden of Florence gives a charismatic voice to a woman cast aside by history.