The Watercolourist

Co-translated with Clarissa Ghelli. Set at the beginning of the nineteenth century in northern Italy, The Watercolourist draws a rich portrait of family and social life from a time when the country was divided under the hegemony of various foreign governments. Author Beatrice Masini skillfully weaves historical facts related to the Risorgimento period into an enticing story of family ties, forbidden love and the dawn of a united Italy. 

At the center of the story is Bianca Pietra, a gifted young watercolor artist, who leaves her home on Lake Garda after her father’s death to live with the family of a famous poet, based on Manzoni. Her curiosity and keen sense of observation lead her towards mystery, danger and personal growth.

Reviews | The Watercolourist

Bianca is reminiscent of both Elizabeth Bennet of Pride and Prejudice and Jo March of Little Women.

Il Sole 24 Ore

There's something of Manzoni… there are the heartbeats of the youngest Brontë sister, Anne, with her Agnes Grey… and, as in Rowling's Casual Vacancy, children are the best part of the story.

la Repubblica

The writing is evocative, the main character engaging, and the landscape clear and lovely in the reader's mind.

Sydney Morning Herald