Journey to the hilltop Tuscan city of Siena and absorb yourself in the beauty, obsession, love and adversity experienced by Duccio di Buoninsegna all on account of his acclaimed altarpiece, the Maesta. In this historical fiction novel, two powerful men try to destroy Duccio's reputation and denigrate his Maesta. Duccio's young female apprentice who disguises herself as a male is the ideal ploy for attack by these enemies. But Duccio cannot let her go. How this drama plays out for Duccio in his final years leaves the reader rooting for this great artist and family man. Regardless of the outcome, his contributions to the world of art are what last."