His Last Duchess is the debut novel by Author Gabrielle Kimm.
At just 16 years of age, it is Lucrezia de’ Medici destiny to marry the fifth Duke of Ferrara, Alfonso d’Este. Despite her rose-tinted glasses of what marriage to a Duke would be like, she couldn’t be any further from the reality!
With outside pressure from Vatican to produce an Heir to be able to keep the title within his family, this is not as easy as it should be. Alfonso becomes more resentful and distant towards his Duchess and runs into the arms of his Mistress, Francesca. Unknown to Lucrezia that this is going on behind her back but his absence makes her feel more and more alone.
When Alfonso hires the talented Artist, Fra Pandolf to paint the Fresco masterpiece, could the sitting for this be the distraction she needs? Can she find happiness within the Castello grounds? Can Alfonso grow to love his Duchess or has his resentment gone too far?
What a fantastic read! Originally inspired by a Robert Browning poem, His Last Duchess. Gabrielle has written a tragic yet very passionate story full of betrayal and twisting plots. everything you’d expect from a Historical novel.
I adore this genre and certainly was not disappointed. Set in sixteenth-century Tuscany and Ferrara, packed full of historical facts that clearly Gabrielle has spent a huge amount of time researching. Great story, beautifully written with lots of “behind closed doors” activity that is very appropriate to the period of the story. Whilst it rather detailed in places, it fits perfectly within the text and not at all out-of-place. Wonderful strong characters and relationship, particular mention about the Duchess’s Childhood Nurse, Giulietta and the wonderful closeness they shared. Also loved Francesca’s character.
Passion, heartbreak, illicit affairs and sorrow makes this a must read – fabulous!
You can follow Gabrielle Kimm on twitter @gabrielle_kimm or find out more information via her website http://gabriellekimm.co.uk/
To purchase via amazon http://tiny.cc/gucmy
Lou Graham's blog 
Great review of an absolutely fantastic book, Lou. One to remember! xx
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