A Name in Blood

A Name in Blood by Matt Rees, published by Corvus in 2013, is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of the artist Caravaggio. This edition spans 288 pages and is presented in English. The narrative follows Caravaggio as he rises to fame after being commissioned to paint the Pope, only to find himself embroiled in scandal when he paints Lena, a low-born fruit seller, into his Madonna series, sparking outrage among the elite of Italian society.

Readers will encounter a rich tapestry of city life in Rome during this tumultuous period, as Caravaggio navigates the complexities of love, art, and societal expectations. The story takes a darker turn when a duel leads to the murder of a nobleman, forcing Caravaggio to confront the consequences of his actions. This exploration of mystery and the historical backdrop provides a compelling context for the characters and their struggles within the rigid social hierarchy of the time.