Author: Kerry Chaput
Genre: Fiction, historical fiction, feminist literature, magical realism (slight) romance elements
Publisher: She Writes Press
Format: Ebook (NetGalley Copy)
Release Date: February 10th, 2026
TW: torture (on page), sexual assault (attempted and on page), murder (on page), misogyny (both period typical and modern), death, stalking/surveliance
The Secret Courtesan was above all else, a timely but still fun read.
But first the plot: Mia Harding, an Art historian, is having an ethical crisis. She's been told to authenticate a statue dredged from the depths of a Venetian canal, or face career destruction. The sculpture is of a woman in climax, and as the foremost expert in Italian women's history in art , this should be a simple affair. Say that this male artist, was the author of the sculpture, and be set for life. However, Mia is sure that there's something about this statue that would rock the art world, and refuses. However, this is only half of the story.
The second POV of this book concerns Sofia, a Venetian courtesan in the Renaissance with an artist's talent and soul. When Sofia's patron sells her contract, she has to rekindle a man's darkness, and make him paint. Will she be able to stay true to her own soul?
I am of two minds about this book. Mia's story wasn't really impactful. I suppose that is because she did a really dumb thing that seems to be the only reason why she's truly scared of her boss. Her character felt real in that she experienced all too real sexism, but that's all that she left me with. Her romance with her male colleague, a history professor who desperately wanted to hear her out, left me similarly cold. Also, the ending to her story felt too convenient near the end, even if the ending was neat enough.
I was here for Sofia's story. Venice as it was in the 1600's was fascinating and was described with suck vivid colour by our courtesan artist. Her story felt so much more real, and visceral. I felt her sadness and rage at not being able to practice her art. I felt the weight of those beautiful gowns trapping her. I read this for her story, and was glad to do so. She stuck with me whereas Mia's character fell flat.
All in all, this novel was worth the read, especially if you like historical fiction. Just be mindful that a portion of the book might not be to everyone's tastes.
Thank you to NetGalley and She Writes Press for the ARC!
Final Rating: 3.5 stars (rounded to 4)
Drink Paring: Qimen black tea for the dark Venice canals
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