Verity Frazer is a history professor who is trying to prove that Christine de Pizan’s artwork for her medieval manuscripts are done by a woman named Anastasia.
The premises for this book was good. The author did admirably with her in-depth research. She takes us on a journey through Europe, both in the 15th century and modern times. Part of the book focuses on Anastasia, and her life. I enjoyed that part, but I was not as fond of the part set in modern times.

I listened to the audio version of the book. The narrators did an okay job with the story. It just did not hold my interest.

I absolutely loved the beautiful writing in the Cities of Women. The words Kathleen B Jones chose to describe the illuminated artwork made it come alive in my mind. It’s obvious that the books subject is dear to her heart.

The two women from different centuries telling their stories alternately was easy to follow. I listened to the audio version and I found all three narrators to have pleasant voices. The only time I had difficulty was with the part of the story that took place in France. The narrator spoke in English except for words she chose to add the french accent to and I could not understand her. Because it was an audiobook I could look at the text to look up the word and see what she was referencing.

I enjoyed following Verity on her journey to find and honor the unnamed Illuminator of her favorite manuscript and the detailed descriptions of how the books and artwork were created. I was not too interested in the romance storyline but all in all it was a wonderful book.

Many thanks to Dreamscape media and Kathleen B Jones for the ARC via NetGalley!!!

3.5⭐ (story) Cities of Women was a study of juxtaposition for me. I loved the premise of this novel. I really enjoyed the storyline and writing set in medieval times, but the modern thread just left me wanting more. Sometimes the flowery writing felt a little forced and unnatural, but other times it felt perfect. Interesting concept for a book!

4⭐ (audio) I enjoyed all three of the narrators on this book. I listen to A LOT of audiobooks, and these three were all solid for their parts. I really enjoyed listening to this one!

Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the advanced reader's audio copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review!