Quattrocento - by James McKean (Paperback)

About the Book

In the tradition of "Time and Again" comes a sweeping love story/time-travel epic situated between the modern-day New York art world and fifteenth-century Tuscany.

Book Synopsis

Matt O'Brien, an assistant curator and art restorer at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, has always been passionate about the Italian Renaissance. But when he discovers a long-neglected portrait of a beautiful woman among the museum's miles of storage bins, he becomes obsessed--and not only because he suspects that the painting is by Leonardo da Vinci. Something about the mysterious woman's exquisite face stirs his memory, and when Matt finds himself spun across the centuries into Quattrocento Italy, where he arrives perfectly attired in 15th century clothing, he appears to be free to pursue her.

A magically woven, richly detailed debut, Quattrocento tells an unforgettable tale of art, and love, and the unexpected places places where they meet.

Review Quotes

"The strength of Quattrocento lies in its scope and fearlessness." --The Philadelphia Inquirer

"An intriguing first novel, rich with historical detail and combining art, physics, time travel and a love story." --Booklist

"Jim McKean appears out of nowhere to fashion a high-caliber, genre-busting, page-turning romp between two passionate artists who literally challenge the laws of nature in order to be together. Bravo" --Jenny McPhee, author of The Center of Things

About the Author

James McKean has been a violinmaker in New York for more than twenty years. His instruments have won numerous awards and can be heard on concert stages around the world. A recent cello was on view at the American Craft Museum as part of a landmark exhibit on craftwork at the millennium. He is also a contributing editor to Strings magazine, where his articles appear regularly. He lives in Connecticut with his family.