The Medici Seal by Theresa Breslin

Author: Theresa Breslin
ISBN # 0385610203
Publisher: Doubleday
First Published: 2006
485 pages

Blurb:
Fleeing from the murderous brigand Sandino, Matteo - a young boy - is saved from drowning by the companions of Leonardo Da Vinci. From this moment on, Matteo is at the Maestro's side as he carries out his work, which ranges from the painting of magnificent frescos to intricate dissection of the human body. But Leonardo is employed by Cesare Borgia, head of one of Italy's leading families. Cruel and ruthless, the Borgia punishes without mercy those who oppose him or who threaten him in any way. And as Da Vinci and Matteo travel across Italy on the Borgia's business, murder, deceit and revenge follow in their trail. For Matteo carries with him a secret - a secret that both the Borgia and Medici families would kill to obtain. A life-changing secret that must, finally, come to light for all to see.

Review:
Theresa Breslin is one of the most highly respected writers fro children and young adults working in Britain today and it’s easy to see why! The historical framework of The Medici Seal has been meticulously researched so that fictional characters sit comfortably alongside actual historical figures and does it so well that you can’t see the join. This story has everything you could possibly want; murder, mystery, secrets, action, drama, love, hate and all that lies in between. It’s superbly written and Breslin has a flair for bringing the characters and the era vividly to life, so that the reader is instantly plunged into the heady atmosphere of 16^th Century Italy and the life and adventures of a young boy taken into the household of the famous Leonardo Da Vinci. It’s a tale of finding one’s-self and one’s place within the world – a voyage of discovery that will lead Matteo back and forth across a country torn apart by war. If you love reading, you will love this book – trust me, you want to read it!

Rating: 8