A riveting love story that is also about so much more-ambition, art, talent, class, gender, social norms, and more. The writing was gorgeous and I was captivated by Gerta’s narration and the lush scene setting. As someone interested in the art of the Golden Age, it was especially fun to read about the artists of the time and get a glimpse of Amsterdam in the 1600s. Highly recommend!

Thank you very much to Zando Projects/SJP Lit and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.

“I Am You” by Victoria Redel is a historical novel set in the 1600s within the male-dominated European art world. The story fictionalizes the lives of real artists Maria van Oosterwijk and her servant, Geertje Pieters Wyntges, also known as Gerta Pieters.

This queer novel explores a spectrum of themes. Gerta begins the story disguised as a male servant to the renowned artist Maria. Over time, she evolves into Maria's female apprentice, lover, and student. Their relationship is complex, sometimes symbiotic and at other times parasitic. It is a tale that delves into love, resentment, art, gender, politics, and class.

I highly recommend this engaging read. It was vivid and provided a lot of context to set the stage. Fans of the film "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" and those who enjoy the works of Sarah Waters are likely to appreciate it. Thank you to Zando, SJP Projects, and NetGalley for the advance reader copy.