Wow. What a book. Constanza is a married woman who falls headlong in love with her husbands boss, a renowned sculptor. Set a few hundred years ago this book highlights the differences for men and women/rich and poor. She has consequences for her actions which are shocking but she does come through it older and wiser! A real page turner.

Rich historical fiction that reignited my love of the genre, steeped in the beauty of Italy and expertly sculpting the life of a woman by giving a voice to her own story. The retelling of history from the female perspective, gives a glimpse into the real woman Costanza and how the author brings her alive through her writing. We are presented with a fierce MC recounting her own life and leaving the reader questioning history after being shown it through a different lens, an arguable feminist lens that would have created a different legacy for Costanza if she had lived in a different era of time.

Extensively researched, Costanza is a window into seventeenth century Rome and the life of Costanza Piccolomini. There’s a real sense of place in the author’s writing and that is a plus for me. Characters are important, but an authentic background gives the story far more substance. The writer excels at this and the initial pace at which the story begins is an opportunity to take stock of the characters and get a real feel for the way they lived.
Life then was by no means easy for women, and given the way they were treated in those times, Costanza comes across as a brave and determined individual. She challenges, she pushes boundaries. Unfortunately, sometimes this does not work well for her. It means the content of this novel sometimes makes uncomfortable reading, but it was also compelling, and pushed me to finish the story.
A moving tale, well written with believable characters.
I would like to thank Renegade Books, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of Costanza in exchange for an honest review.

As not only a lover of history but also a student of Classical Studies, the premise of this book really intrigued me. I was already aware of the real Bernini from an assignment I did for my degree in Classical Studies so I did enjoy the nod to the famous sculptor. I felt that the book was well-paced, albeit a little slow in the beginning. I loved the characterisation of Constanza as I feel like most women can relate to her struggles on a personal level. I also really enjoyed the showcase of sisterhood and women supporting women. If you like historical novels which have an incredible amount of research in, this is definitely the book for you.

This book is fantastic. I didn’t think I would enjoy being transported to 17th Century Rome but Costanza brings you on a journey where you can see and hear the streets with absolute clarity - a clarity that helps you understand the dangerous situation in which our heroine finds herself.

It’s brilliantly written and I raced through the pages with a growing sense of dread. Women have always had it tough it seems, but the nuances painted throughout this novel regarding the many women we meet were truly fascinating.

A 5 star read for sure.

What an excellent read and a great demonstration that the cult of celebrity is the same now as it was in the 17th century in the centre of the world; Rome.

Whilst I found the book gripping my interest and wanting me to keep page turning, I really was fascinated by the parallels that jumped off the pages about celebrities and power then and now. It seems nothing changes.

An excellent book to have very close to the top of your "books to read" list.

This is a beautifully written novel based on true events in Rome of the 1630s. It’s a difficult read in places as the treatment of women in this time period was abhorrent. The afterword and authors note demonstrates that sadly, the abuse of women continues into the present day. Thought provoking debut novel.

I was looking forward to this but did not like Constanza as a character at all. She had no redeeming qualities at all.

Costanza is a happily married wife in 17th-century Rome; her husband is on the rise as a sculptor, given the opportunity of a lifetime to work under Bernini. Bernini remains one of the most renowned artists of all time. Who could say no? And when his attention falls on Costanza, she can't resist him either. She's never been desired like this. Yet she will discover that obsession can come at a terrible cost.

The historical detail in this book is extraordinary. On every page, I was immersed in the sights and sounds of Rome and completely convinced by the world on the page. I loved Costanza as our heroine: she's clever but naive, a trait which lets her down over and over, and makes her mistakes feel credible yet heartbreaking. I was also fascinated by the author's notes, which explained her focus for the novel and the research she did - I won't give anything away, but it feels deeply timely and heartbreaking. Be warned: this book doesn't shy away from the darkest parts of human nature, and the final third was so hard to read. I'm not giving this five stars because I felt the pacing was off: the first half is much slower than the second half, and we spend a long time waiting before Costanza and Bernini's relationship really takes off. However, that said, this is still an excellent book and very worth reading.

Thank you Netgalley for this review copy!

A historical fiction exploring the life of Costanza Piccolomini and the abuse she faced at the hands of the Bernini brothers.

The author did such an amazing job of transporting the reader back to Rome in 1636. From the sounds, smells, the way people acted and held themselves - you can tell that so much research and time has gone into this book.

The exploration of the abuse Costanza faced at the hands of the Bernini brothers followed by the consequences each party faced was done so well. It honestly had me seething seeing the consequences that Costanza faced for the affair vs the lack of consequences the Bernini brothers faced. I also enjoyed seeing Costanza’s recovery and gaining her physical and mental strength back and wished we had gotten to see more of this.

However, the main reason I gave this 3 stars instead of higher was that it so slow to start. The pace was super slow in the first half of the book whilst we’re watching Costanza and Lorenzo fall in love (which I don’t think was done well enough) that by the time we got to the second and more impactful half of the book, I had lost most of my interest and was mainly reading to just finish the book rather than with any interest in the story.

Overall, it was a good book but just needs faster pacing. If you don’t mind a bit of a slower pace at the start, then this is a really good feminist historical fiction book to read.

Constanza” is the debut historical fiction novel by award-winning writer and communicator Rachel Blackmore. Blackmore’s fascination with the “forgotten stories of women on the margins” is skillfully depicted in her vivid descriptions, prose, and characters, bringing 17th-century Roman society to life. The book is well-researched, well-structured, and enjoyable.

The novel opens with Costanza Piccolomini, the respectable wife of the artist Matteo Bonucelli, waiting for her husband, who is late due to a new commission from the famed Papal sculptor Gianlorenzo Bernini. Little did she know that a passionate, forbidden, all-consuming love would deeply change her over the course of three years, testing her strength and resilience. The story unfolds without haste, building suspense and maintaining a steady pace, illustrating the societal pressures Costanza faces as a woman with a progressive mind and desires that do not conform to the conservative and religious – not to say hypocritical – society of Rome.

“Amidst all these notes of bacchanal, there is a piercing, soaring soprano. I looked toward the stage at the far end of the room, expecting to see a woman, but it is a man wearing a satin jacket of apricot brocade with heavily rouged cheeks. Matteo leans into my ear. ‘A castrato. Emasculated as a child. A favorite of cardinals, and not just for his singing – he’s very well connected.’”

Costanza’s journey is one of remarkable transformation. Blackmore vividly depicts how her experiences with love, betrayal, and loss shape her into a strong and determined woman. We witness her internal struggles as she grapples with societal constraints and her burgeoning desires. Yet, her spirit remains unbroken; even when the most horrific events occur, she finds ways to overcome her hardships.

“Growing up in my district, I quickly learned that words cannot bruise, and bullies do not like being challenged.”

Blackmore’s writing style is evocative and descriptive, transporting the reader to the Fabbrica, bustling streets, and opulent palaces of 17th-century Rome. The historical details feel meticulously researched – and the author explains in her notes that some liberties were taken, but they did not alter important historical facts – allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the world Costanza inhabits. For example, there are no historical records of Matteo’s and Constanza’s relationship as a couple. Some inferences were made, adding an extra layer for Blackmore to explore. Additionally, Blackmore employs powerful metaphors and imagery, particularly when depicting the intensity of Costanza’s love affair with Bernini and his obsession with her.

“‘This is the greatest peace I have ever felt in years. It’s you, Venus,’ he breathes. ‘Knowing you’re mine.’ Lorenzo shifts, his arm still around mine, but now gripping harder. ‘You are mine, aren’t you?’”

In the author’s notes, Blackmore mentions using two main references to build and understand the characters in the novel. She cites “In Control” by Jane Monckton Smith as an important source material for understanding Lorenzo’s known predatory behavior, exposing his coercive control.

“Constanza” is a perfect read for those who enjoy historical fiction, particularly stories that highlight the struggles and triumphs of strong female characters. Blackmore delivers a thrilling narrative and sheds light on an important historical figure who deserves recognition. The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of women and the importance of reclaiming forgotten voices from history.

Overall, “Constanza” is a captivating and thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a must-read for anyone who appreciates historical fiction with a strong female character.

Many thanks to Dialogue Books, Renegade Books, and NetGalley for providing me with this opportunity to read and review “Constanza.”

This is so much more than a love story retelling one of the most scandalous affairs in 17th century Rome.

This is about womanhood and how Costanza was treated by the men in her life, and more generally in the 17th Century,

I found this book very compelling and was immediately transported into this world that Blackmore has created.
I really enjoyed this book as It mentioned baroque artist and art styles as this is the period in which the Baroque movement was taking off in Italy.
If you enjoyed Disobedient by Elizabeth Fremantle or The marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell.

I found this book very well researched considering that not much is known about the real like Costanza Piccolomini. Must more is known about her lover Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his infamous affairs.

I would strongly recommend this to everyone, this is my favourite book of the summer

Constanza by Rachel Blackmore is an unmissable feminist narrative that breathes life into a forgotten icon of history.

Rachel Blackmore's masterful writing vividly captures the fashions of the era, drawing readers into a world where every stolen kiss and illicit tryst carries the weight of potential ruin. The portrayal of Bernini's dark desire to immortalise Costanza in marble, and the subsequent scandal, is both haunting and enthralling. The metaphors abound in this novel

The hubris of the young and beautiful were truly captured in many of the characters. Constanza really develops as a character throughout the novel. Costanza’s journey from girl of little means to betrayal and abandonment to her ultimate rise from the ashes is profoundly moving. Her development as a character is remarkable, evoking a spectrum of emotions from happiness and anxiety to despair and hope. Through Costanza's eyes, we are introduced to the often overlooked world of women in the 17th century Italian art scene, a world brought to life with stunning detail and emotional depth.

Constanza is a captivating and essential read, a dazzling portrayal of a woman who defies the constraints of her time to leave an indelible mark on history. Blackmore has given us a heroine to remember, and a story that resonates with contemporary themes of female empowerment and resilience. Thank you, Rachel Blackmore, for this unforgettable journey.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Thank you Dialogue Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.

This is an excellent read combining a tightly written storyline with an interesting and less well known moment in history.It tells the story of Costanza who became the lover of renowned sculptor Lorenzo Bernini and who little fault of her own suffered for being so. I found Costanza to be both a credible and likeable character with plenty of spirit and compassion .Equally,the depiction of the depth of Berninis feelings were also well drawn. I liked the descriptions of seventeenth century Rome with its hustle and bustle -everything was richly evocative. This was a highly enjoyable read and I will look out for future titles from this author.
My thanks to Net Galley and Renegade books for this arc.

‘Costanza’ drew me in from the first sight of its cover. Once I made my initial, tentative steps into the suffocating, claustrophobic warren of 17th Century Rome’s streets I knew that there was no escape.
Rachel Blackmore’s skills as a researcher and storyteller are sublime. Every nuance of expression, every intention, gesture and craving are intricately woven into this sublime tapestry of desire and destruction.
Costanza Piccolomini’s journey from neglected wife to feted muse to pariah is not the tale of everywoman but the poisonous passion of Gianlorenzo Bernini is instantly recognisable to us all. Blackmore tells us in the notes that her inspiration came from an offhand comment about Costanza by art critics discussing Bernini’s genius but that the spark of rage which ignited and initiated her writing was the vile rape and murder of Sarah Everard. Championing a victim of coercive control allowed Blackmore to wrestle back Costanza’s story from the detritus of history’s rubbish heap and fashion it into as great an artwork as that of Bernini himself.
I so look forward to following Blackmore’s writing journey as this first novel is an impressive springboard from which to launch a stellar career.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for this opportunity to read this book. I couldn't wait to get reading after reading the blurb, and I was not disappointed! An instant 5 stars from me, this is a gripping historical fiction and a wonderful debut from Rachel Blackmore. The author weaves rich storytelling and beautiful prose into a gripping book which I couldn't put down.

If you’re a fan of Madeline Miller’s “Circe,” Rosie Hewlett’s “Medea,” or any works by Jessica Saint and Natalie Haynes, you will love this book as much as I did! Set against the backdrop of 1636 Rome, “Costanza” delves into themes of fierce female friendship, sisterhood, jealousy, and betrayal. The suffering endured by our protagonist, particularly the abuse inflicted by the Bernini brothers, resonates with a painful authenticity—one that persists even in our modern world. It’s a stark reminder that history’s patterns repeat themselves relentlessly.

Blackmore’s vivid descriptions transport us seamlessly to that tumultuous time period. Her meticulous research shines through, breathing life into both characters and the city itself. As we follow Costanza’s journey, we witness assertive women defying societal norms, feminine rage in its rawest form, and the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength.

Based on a true story, this beautifully written, character driven debut is a fictionalised deep dive into the life of Costanza Piccolomini and how it is shaped by her relationships with, and the abuses of, the men around her, particularly the famed sculptor Gianlorenzo Bernini.

I found the character of Costanza and the city of Rome were brought vividly to life, and the story and writing felt authentic and well researched. It was a little slow to start and I struggled a little to become invested in her relationship with Bernini as he was clearly a 'bad guy'. Despite that I truly enjoyed getting the female perspective of society during this time and many story elements felt current and relevant, especially the male on female violence, its impact and effects. History keeps repeating itself it seems and the consequences of the affair for Costanza echo down through history and are still experienced by women today.

Lorenzo and Luigi Bernini are classic villains made of pure ego and selfishness under the guise of artistry and passion and of no surprise to any reader both men essentially end up with the equivalent of a slap on the wrist for their actions - it's infuriating and all too realistic.

Despite that frustration, for me, these elements are what made this book really work. It's historical fiction but its accessible and paints a picture that could fit into a 21st century setting. Costanza is at once a traditional female character for that era, having little agency and could easily have been very one dimensional in lesser hands, but she is also complex and current, drawing power from the women around her and her own inner strength and will to survive.

I found the author's note to be particularly effective at adding context and additional insight into the writing and highly recommend reading it, potentially even first, depending on your feelings about spoilers, as it could enhance your overall reading experience with that knowledge in mind.

This is a story of love, lust and betrayal. It's epic and intimate and comes highly recommended especially for fans of historical fiction.

4.5*

Thank you to NetGalley and Dialogue Books | Renegade Books for a digital review copy of "Costanza" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.

This is a largely slow-paced, fictionalised account of Costanza Piccolomini’s relationship and abuse at the hands of famed sculptor Gianlorenzo Bernini. I would recommend it to people who are interested in feminist historical fiction and explorations of how women suffer within systems that excuse male violence.

My biggest issue with this book is that it kept telling me it was about complicated relationships, and about Costanza navigating the conflict between her roles as wife, daughter, friend and mistress, but I felt like hardly any of that conflict actually happened on page. Even Costanza’s relationship with Bernini, which was obviously given the most space out of them all, didn’t feel… meaty enough? I don’t quite know how to put it. I guess I didn’t feel like I was deep enough in her interior experience for a book that is ultimately driven by that.

A stunning historical fiction debut, this is a beautifully written, epic tale of love, lust and betrayal. The character of Constanza is modern enough to be relatable without being anachronistic for the period and environment. Not having heard of her before reading the book, I loved the twists and turns of her life story, and was rooting for her all the way in spite of her tragic flaws.
This is a thought-provoking, stirring novel which will stay with me. The dynamics of Costanza’s relationships with her family, with her husband, lover and friends are fascinating and completely plausible. I found the final chapters surprising and highly satisfying.
As a history fan, I love a good author’s note and this one was particularly good. It was a treat to gain insights into the truth underlying the fiction, and the author’s creative decisions, as well as the passions driving her to tell the story.
Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.

Thank you to Dialogue books, Renegade books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

As a lover of historical fiction, especially Renaissance era Italian historical fiction, I was incredibly excited to read Constanza. Based on the real life story of 17th century noblewoman Constanza Piccolomini, this book did not disappoint. I sincerely appreciated the author's dedication to the known historical accuracies and the carefully curated construction of the fictional story woven around the facts. Blackmore has done a spectacular job at giving us all the goods with a yummy side serving of the goodies, which made this read super enjoyable for me. From one history buff to another, thank you. The story itself starts as a bit of a slow burn, but once it got going it really had my attention. I loved the female perspective, the camaraderie, and, of course, the drama! Constanza's story both in history and in fiction is one writhe with passion, scandal and violence. I read this in one sitting and honestly, couldn't put it down. Great debut by a clearly passionate storyteller. You have a fan for life.