Young, beautiful, and witty Ginevra longs to take part in the artistic ferment of Renaissance Florence. But as the daughter of a wealthy family in a society dictated by men, she is trapped in an arranged marriage and expected to limit her creativity to domestic duties.

When charismatic Bernardo Bembo arrives in Florence, he introduces Ginevra to a dazzling circle of patrons, artists, and philosophers-a world of thought and conversation she has yearned for. She is attracted to the handsome newcomer, yet Ginevra remains conflicted about his attentions. Choosing her as his Platonic muse, Bembo commissions a portrait by a young Leonardo da Vinci. Posing for the brilliant painter inspires an intimate connection between them-one Ginevra can only begin to understand. In a world of exquisite art, elaborate feats, and exhilarating jousts, she discovers romance, friendship, temptation, and a deadly battle between the powerful Medici family and its rivals.