Ascendancy, Matteo Strukul

I Medici, Ascendancy

Matteo Strukul

Storyline

Giovanni de' Medici is dead. A lifetime of shrewd investment, strategic alliance and sly manipulation saw Giovanni climb from mere money-lender to the top echelon of Florentine society. But success has left a slew of bitter enemies in his wake - and there are whispers his untimely demise wasn't accidental.
Florence is a nest of vipers, and with the Medici family's wealth in the hands of Giovanni's untested sons, Cosimo and Lorenzo, there are those who feel that now is the time to strike, to destroy the upstarts and seize their holdings.

Review

“Medici: Ascendancy” marks the beginning of a saga that introduced me to the writing of Matteo Strukul and made me fall in love with his work. This book takes off quickly, thanks to a smoothly flowing plot and the author's extraordinary ability to make us feel like privileged spectators, a distinctive trait of all his works that I deeply appreciate.
The characters are beautifully crafted, and the timeline is well-orchestrated, allowing each chapter to be savored at the right pace. Each section recounts events from a specific moment, immersed in the brilliance of the Renaissance, one of the most luminous periods in Italian history. We find ourselves in 1429, and the protagonists of this first novel are Cosimo and Lorenzo de’ Medici, as they strive to conquer Florence. It’s fascinating how they are portrayed as real men, imperfect and capable of rash decisions. Alongside them, secondary characters shine, including Contessina, a woman of great character, passionately and devotedly in love with her husband.
The first part of the book may seem a bit slow as it introduces all the characters, but soon Strukul’s incredible talent emerges. He skillfully balances history with fictional narrative, creating a perfect blend that captivates the reader. What truly stands out is the author’s mastery of language, a style that seamlessly fits the genre and the era in which the story is set. This is a recurring element in all his works, and it never fails to fascinate me.
The pace is fast and full of twists, gripping due to the various storylines that, despite their individuality, weave together into a broader tapestry. Every detail is carefully crafted, making the narrative compelling. This novel is a treat for historical fiction enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to explore and experience the streets of Medici Florence, where art and politics intertwine. I highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in this extraordinary world.