Birth of Venus

Not sure what the title has to do with the book -- maybe Cris can explain. There are mentions of Botticelli although not really "central" to the story. I don't get it, maybe a different title would give too much away. Anyways the book is set in 15th century Florence where the de Medici (Lorenzo the Magnificent) looses power and the church (Savanorola) tries to "cleanse" the city. Crazy times. Central character is a strong-willed female aspiring artist (during a time when female artists were unheard of -- 100 years before Artemesia) and we see all through her eyes and experiences. Her discoveries of the world around her as well as of herself are intriguing. A good read.