‘The Painter from Seville’ is an intriguing tale of forbidden love, justice, and art, set against the complexity of Renaissance Seville. 

It is 1512 and Francisca dreams of making her way as a painter. Leonardo da Vinci’s radical new ideas inspire her, but reality weighs her down. 

A prospective marriage looms and when she uncovers her mother’s final masterpiece, questions surrounding a tragedy that befell her parents when she was a child begin to prey on her mind.  

Francisca’s life takes an unexpected turn when she is tasked to assist a renowned Italian artist in decorating the grand Seville Cathedral. She meets Isabel, the artist’s captivating muse, whose flamenco singing ignites a passion within her that cannot be ignored.

Just as Francisca begins to believe she can break free from the constraints of her life, the Inquisition threatens and the secrets that have kept her safe unravel. Amid the splendours of the Renaissance and the dangers of persecution, she faces a stark choice: submit or fight for freedom.

Praise for ‘The Painter from Seville’: 

“Sonya Van de Graaff’s captivating novel hooks readers from the start with her eloquent storytelling. The characters spring to life with their passion for art and will for survival that drives the unfolding narrative and leaves the reader eager for more.”

“Beautifully and eloquently written. It is a feast for the reader. I did not want the book to end.”

“Sonya Van de Graaff is a brilliant writer and storyteller. I read the first chapters and could not put it down… the plot is so interesting. Fascinating story.”