The Last Prince of Florence Book Review and Summary
-
Hannah Schmidt - 25 Aug, 2026 05:49
Author: Zoe Sivak
Page Count: Unknown
Publication Date: Expected publication 2026-11-17 APL
The problem with these Renaissance-era tales is that they often get bogged down in ornate descriptions and excessive name-dropping. I mean, we all know the Medicis were powerful, but must every character be a direct descendant of someone famous? The Last Prince of Florence seems to be taking a more interesting approach, focusing on the story of Alessandro de’ Medici, a Black woman’s secret plot to put her son on the throne.
Alessandro’s birth is an interesting twist, especially given the context of the growing African slave trade in Europe. The fact that his mother, Simonetta, is determined to do whatever it takes to put him on the throne speaks to the desperation and ambition that often drive these stories. And yet, as the gulf between mother and son widens, one can’t help but wonder if Simonetta’s actions are truly justified.
But what really catches my eye is the character of Simonetta herself. Raised by an African nurse who teaches her to fight and survive, she’s a woman with a sharp tongue and a quick wit. I’m reminded of the strong female characters in The Song of Achilles or The Red Tent, women who defy convention and forge their own paths. Simonetta’s dark skin and sharp tongue make enemies, and yet she’s determined to succeed in a world that seems stacked against her.
And then, of course, there’s the question of Alessandro’s legacy. As a biracial boy, he threatens everything his enemies believe about power, bloodlines, and Simonetta’s own legacy. It’s a fascinating exploration of identity and power, one that I think will resonate with readers. I’m reminded of the themes in The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, the way that identity and culture can shape our understanding of the world.
But I have to say, I’m a bit skeptical about the whole “secret plot” thing. I mean, how many times have we seen this trope played out in Renaissance-era fiction? It’s a bit predictable, and I worry that the story will get bogged down in clichés. And yet, at the same time, I’m drawn to the idea of a strong female character who’s willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.
A bold claim for a Tuesday. I think The Last Prince of Florence has the potential to be a game-changer, a book that challenges our assumptions about power and identity in Renaissance-era Europe. But only time will tell if it lives up to its promise.
Speaking of promises, have you ever noticed how kids’ cartoons always seem to promise more than they deliver? I mean, I was watching an episode of Adventure Time with my niece the other day, and I realized that the whole show is just a series of unfulfilled promises. “We’ll go on a quest to find the magical sword!” No, you’ll just wander around in the woods for 20 minutes and then forget about the sword. It’s like they’re trying to train kids to be disappointed. Anyway, back to The Last Prince of Florence…
I think what really sets this book apart is its willingness to take risks. By focusing on a Black woman’s story in Renaissance-era Europe, Zoe Sivak is challenging our assumptions about the time period and the people who lived in it. It’s a bold move, and one that I think will pay off in the end.
And now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go find my favorite fountain pen. The toddler has hidden it again.
#RenaissanceFiction #HistoricalFiction #DiversityInLiterature
