Raphael: Painter in Rome, a Novel

Fans of world-renowned artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo are sure to enjoy Storey’s historical fiction story of Raphael: Painter in Rome set in the early 1500s, when many famous artists were working and competing against each other. Told from the voice of Raphael, the story recounts his life from being orphaned at a young age to striving for artistic perfection as an adult. His goal in life is to be called a master at his craft; he feels he may be close, but then he’s pitted against the new man in town, Michelangelo. Seeing Michelangelo’s David sets Raphael all aquiver and causes him to work harder than ever to prove himself. Not just a “pretty boy,” Raphael struggles with internal demons to be the best artist ever.

Storey has written her story with beauty and grace; she makes her characters realistic with their struggles and temptations and has included references to the beautiful work created by these characters. I enjoyed reading Raphael’s commentary on his life while discovering the source of the internal fire for his craft. Who knows, Storey might have hit it on the head on accuracy for these characters—the story is worth the read!