James Markert

Novels Set in Italy Perfect for the Artsy Traveler

Arts & Culture, Artsy Novels, Destinations, Italy, Novels Artsy Traveler 1 Comment on Novels Set in Italy Perfect for the Artsy Traveler

Last updated on January 15th, 2025 at 09:04 pm

So many authors (including myself!) have set novels in Italy–and no wonder! With its rich history, gorgeous landscape, and fascinating cultures, Italy never fails to be inspiring.

In this post, I feature a selection of novels that are not only set in Italy, but also relate in some way to the arts.

A promotional image combining several book covers, framed with a red background and text highlighting "12 Compelling Novels Set in Italy," complemented by the Italian flag at the bottom.

The Night Portrait by Laura Morelli

A thrilling dual-time historical novel set in 1492 and World War II about the creation of one of da Vinci’s most famous paintings.

The book cover for The Night Portrait by Laura Morelli features a woman with blonde hair wearing a blue beret and coat, her back turned to the viewer. Below, sepia-toned images depict historical scenes, including soldiers, artwork, and a portrait, reflecting themes of World War II and Renaissance Italy. The title appears in large white letters, with the subtitle "A Novel of World War II and Da Vinci's Italy" in a blue circular badge.

Blood Water Paint by Joy McCullough

Artemisia Gentileschi was one of the most talented painters of the Baroque era and one of the most famous female painters of all time. Her story is riveting.

A bold and artistic cover with rich, textured brushstrokes blending shades of blue, gold, and red, evoking the themes of art and emotion.

The Art of Traveling Strangers by Zoe Disigny

One woman’s journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment inspired by the great art masterpieces of Milan, Venice, Ravenna, Florence, Siena, Rome, and Paris.

A vibrant and colorful cover resembling a vintage travel poster, featuring illustrations of Italian landmarks and a stylish woman in a hat and sunglasses.

The Towers of Tuscany by Carol M. Cram

Set in 14th-century San Gimignano and Siena, the novel follows the journey of a woman painter who risks everything to do what she loves.

The cover showcases a striking image of a medieval Tuscan town with its prominent towers, overlaid by a woman's contemplative face in soft, muted tones.

Vivaldi’s Virgins by Barbara Quick

A fascinating glimpse inside the source of Vivaldi’s musical legacy, combined with the captivating story of an exceptional young woman’s coming of age in a deliciously reminiscent place and time.

A serene cover depicting a young woman in period attire holding a flute, set against a backdrop of Venice with its famous waterways and historical architecture.

Oil and Marble by Stephanie Storey

Stephanie Storey brings early 16th-century Florence alive, entering with extraordinary empathy into the minds and souls of two Renaissance masters–Michelangelo and da Vinci to create a stunning art history thriller. 

Featuring a warm, textured background with ornate architectural details of Renaissance Italy, this cover sets an artistic tone with the title prominently displayed in white serif font.

The Wedding Shroud by Elisabeth Storrs

The first in the richly-imagined Tales of Ancient Rome trilogy set in the time of the Etruscans.

The cover depicts a woman in a dramatic red dress, her back turned to the viewer as she faces a dark background, suggesting intrigue and romance.

Lady in Ermine by Donna DiGiuseppe

An historical biographical novel that tells the fascinating story of Renaissance artist Sofonisba Anguissola.

The cover shows a Renaissance-style portrait of a young woman with a subtle, reserved smile, wearing a black dress with a white collar, set against a dark backdrop.

The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence by Alyssa Palombo

A lush and sensual interpretation of Medici Florence, artist Sandro Botticelli, and the muse that inspired them all.

A book cover featuring a woman with long, flowing auburn hair gazing downward, set against a pink and orange background of Florence's skyline with its iconic Duomo.

Juliet by Anne Fortier

A young American woman discovers that her family’s origins reach all the way back to literature’s greatest star-crossed lovers.

A book cover featuring a dramatic red rose in close-up with a historical Italian cityscape in the background. The title, "Juliet," is elegantly displayed at the top, evoking themes of romance and mystery.

The Serpent of Venice by Christopher Moore

A gleeful mashup of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice and Othello: Greed, revenge, deception, lust, and a giant (but lovable) sea monster combine to create another hilarious and bawdy tale from modern comic genius, Christopher Moore.

A vibrant blue book cover showcasing a whimsical gondola scene with a masked character standing against a moonlit background. The title, "The Serpent of Venice," is written in bold, stylized font.

Midnight at the Tuscany Hotel by James Markert

A story of memories lost and found that explores the mysteries of the mind, the truth behind lore, and the miracle of inspiration.

A colorful book cover featuring a mosaic-style design with the title "Midnight at the Tuscany Hotel" in bold red and yellow letters. A small clock is incorporated within the title, set against a background reminiscent of Italian tilework.

Have you read a novel set in Italy, particularly an arts-inspired one? Do you have a favorite guidebook? Share your recommendations with other Artsy Travelers in the Comments below.

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