Renaissance Italy, forbidden magic, sculptress MC, and a broody immortal knight? Yes, please. Ravenna Maffei enters a deadly competition to save her brother, unleashing magic she’s supposed to hide. Cue kidnapping by the enigmatic Saturnino dei Luni, hot, dangerous, and maybe slightly unhinged. As politics, the Pope, and magic wars swirl, the tension is nonstop, and the scenery is lush as heck.

What I loved:

Deep enemies-to-lovers chemistry with serious slow-burn payoff.

Gorgeous historical vibes, political intrigue, and forbidden spells.

High stakes: saving family, surviving immortal nobles, and dealing with a magic-fearing Pope.

One small nitpick:

The pacing can feel a bit dense in the middle history + politics + magic buildup = slow spots. But if you love immersive worldbuilding, it lands beautifully.

Overall? Strong must-read if you're into lush historical fantasy with steam, magic, and suspense.

It was the ideal book because of the crazy family dynamics, intriguing narrative, superb writing, lovely characters, and amusing banter. I really enjoyed this, and I would be thrilled if the author ever came back to this universe!

WOW! Yes, this was phenomenal! It's historical fantasy romance done right.
The story is set in Volterra, Italy, in the 15th century, but in this world, humans live alongside witches, fae, vampires and other magical creatures. While the Republic of Florence's leader was in favour of magic, the Pope was NOT, seeing magic as a sin and calling for the burning of all witches (sound familiar?). This book has multiple POVs but mainly follows Ravenna, a young woman who dreams of being a sculptor but does much of the work running her family's inn. She is also hiding from the world that she has magic. However, when her brother is imprisoned after the Medici family seizes power, she exposes magic during a sculpting competition to get a boon from the powerful Luni family (the immortal family). However, she is then kidnapped by the Luni family, who need her talents, dragging her into a battle between the powerful Medici and Luni family and the Pope himself. The heartless assassin, Saturnino dei Luni, is tasked with ensuring that she completes her goal; she must fight to save not only her life but the lives of the people of Florence.
As a lover of both historical fiction and romantasy, this book just gave me everything that I could want in a book. First, I loved that Isabel represented some essential facts about the Medici family in her story, for example, that they were patrons of art and supported artists like Leonardo da Vinci; they were also a powerful banking family and, of course, had many enemies! I also LOVED her commentary on the hypocritical nature of the Catholic Church; it is also very relevant to the current actions of many Christians around the world. This quote stood out to me the most " It's always amazed me how contrary to the New Testament most cardinals and priests and popes behave. The guilt and share they preach, spreading like sickness, like a plague .... Accepting payment in exchange for forgiveness and a place in eternity when it's supposed to be free. Grace for everyone, even someone born with a magical talent." Furthermore, she employs the Pope to illustrate how powerful men can proclaim something as a sin yet use it themselves to maintain power, rationalizing it as being for the greater good and assuring themselves of forgiveness. Something that is again being played out currently.

I loved the romance between Ravenna and Saturnino, the connection that slowly develops due to their attraction for one another, but also her vulnerability and confidence that begins to break down some of his barriers by showing him that humans are not all evil. Furthermore, Ravenna's ability to pick up on the smallest moments when Saturnino shows emotions and holds on to them as proof of his humanity reveals her profound hope as a person. The emotional development of Saturnino is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

My one critique is that I would have liked more from the world-building. How does the Fae King fit into the world? Does he have any influence at all? Is it a large kingdom? Also, did magical creatures come over from the fae lands, or have they always existed in the human lands? I was left wanting a little bit.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ // ARC Review
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/Saturday Books for the ARC of Graceless Heart by Isabel Ibañez! I was super excited to dive into this one after seeing all the hype, and the Renaissance Italy setting absolutely delivered. I loved how so many characters and events were inspired by real historical figures within the timeline—it gave the story a rich, immersive feel. At the end of the book she includes the historical links between reality and the fantasy she presented which I also thought gave it a really nice touch.

The writing was beautiful, and there were some wild plot twists, some I called, and others I was definitely surprised. I appreciated the clever foreshadowing that paid off in those “ah-ha!” moments later in the story.

That said, there were a few spots where the pacing dragged, and I had a hard time fully connecting with the main characters. But the final chapters really picked up, and I thought the ending wrapped things up in a pretty satisfying way. I just wish more of the book had that same spark I felt at the end!

Overall, this is a solid historical fantasy with gorgeous prose and a twisty plot. Fans of lush settings and Renaissance intrigue will definitely enjoy it.

Graceless Heart represents a compelling entry into the fantasy romance genre that successfully balances intimate character development with broader political intrigue. This book captivated me from beginning to end with a relatively fast-paced plot that kept me thoroughly engaged. The dialogue between the two main characters was particularly compelling, at times quite profound and thought-provoking for readers. The supporting characters were distinctively crafted, each possessing unique traits that made them memorable and unmistakable from one another.

Ravenna is a strong, courageous woman who is utterly devoted to her family and I found myself loving her just as much as Saturnino does. Speaking of this young man, you might think you have him figured out from his first appearance but throughout the story, secrets gradually unfold and you realize that Saturnino truly deserves to bring happiness to Ravenna. Oh, how I adore this couple!

Additionally, the magic system was constructed with reasonable thoroughness. I wish this element had been explored more extensively but if this is indeed a standalone novel, then everything feels just right as it is.

I loved the historical accuracy and setting of this book. That was probably my favorite thing about it. Second favorite was the characters. I did not see the twist (the Luni family being the statues) coming at all. I did, at times, get bored and felt like things were dragging on with no real plot development. Overall I did enjoy this.

Unfortunately this book didn't work for me. It felt unoriginal and badly researched (if it was indeed even researched).

This was a solid romantasy and historical fiction read!

The setting was fun - Renaissance Italy with religious ties (Pope, Rome)
Unique magic - the fmc is a sculptress with special abilities
I enjoyed the historical aspects brought into the story, just like the author's done in her previous duology (what the river knows)

If you're looking for a new romantasy to read, definitely check this out! This will be very popular when it releases next year and I can't wait to see all the fanart!

'Graceless Heart' had me enthralled from the first chapter. It's a stunning fantasy re-imagining of the renaissance period that highlights the art of sculptures.

The plot is fast paced with every scene feeding into the next. It has magical stones, scheming politicians, and high stakes coming from all sides. Ravenna is forced into a den of vipers with conflicting agendas, and she’s stuck playing their games.

The descriptions of the time-period were so detailed that it was beautifully immersive. It takes many chapters before the magical elements of the worldbuilding begin to develop, which created a lot of engaging suspense. The slow build-up does pay off in the end and leaves a little room for further exploration.

I loved Ravenna, even though she could be stubborn and naïve. She’s an exhausted eldest daughter who’s trying to make the best choices for her family. Throughout this book, she proves to be a shrewd problem solver and negotiator, as well as ambitious, practical, and determined. She also has some poetic views on artwork and what it means to be human.

With that said, her story might not be for you if you're sensitive to criticisms of religious leaders; or if you don't understand how religion can cause intense feelings of confusion, guilt, and self-hatred. Ravenna experiences several moments of tumultuous inner conflict that affects her motivation and her perception of the people she meets.

The romance was such a delicious and magnetic slow burn. Saturnino is a villainous person who could be broody, aloof, mysterious, threatening, and dangerously charming. But most importantly, he's always there to protect Ravenna when she needs it. He starts out as a 'nobody can hurt you but me' kind of character and then moves into a 'who did this to you' lover. His cold mask gets peeled away one layer at a time until he eventually proves himself as a worthy love interest. I adored the tension in their conversations, the way that they forced each other to reflect, and how that influenced their character development.

Thank you to NetGalley, St Martin’s Press, and Saturday Books for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.

First off, a MASSIVE thank you to NetGalley for blessing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

When I tell you I RAN when I heard this ARC was available!!!! A romantasy set in renaissance Italy written by a fantastic author?!?! Sign me tf up. This book absolutely blew me away, I absolutely devoured it and if life wasn’t so annoyingly busy I likely would have finished it in under 24hrs but, alas, adulthood.

I loved the world building and how subtle it was, incorporating real historical events and figures but turning them into something familiar yet unique. I had a very strong fixation on renaissance Italy when I was younger (thank you Assassin’s Creed lol) so recognizing characters and events from our world history was so cool for me. I haven’t read a lot of historical fantasy but this book has me wanting to explore more of this particular genre.

The overarching plot in this book was incredible too; the political maneuvering, the struggles with faith and the corruption within, all felt very real. My favorite theme that came up surrounded the pope and his disdain for magic, punishing those who can wield it, yet still using it for his own benefit. It’s (unfortunately) very reminiscent of our current world where people in power horde knowledge and technology to themselves in order to achieve and maintain power, rather than sharing them to help create a better world. We see brief examples of what that world could look within Florence, where magic is allowed, although still restricted due to fear of retaliation from the church. The city is filled with joy and art and life, where other cities controlled by the pope are filled with hunger and people fearing the government that is meant to protect them.

Last but certainly not least in this book, THE ROMANCE. Holy crap I died dead at so many points 💀🥰😭 I was kicking my fucking feet giggling because what do you MEAN this seemingly heartless immortal man turns into a sappy lovey mess for this little human sculptress??? Their chemistry was off the charts from the start without feeling like insta love, and the twists and turns in last 25% or so made me cry and smile and kinda want to scream, it was so damn good. The ending was also incredibly satisfying and I’m honestly a gooey mess just thinking about it.

This is one of the best books I’ve read all year and I’m honestly devastated that this doesn’t come out until next year because I want to make all of my friends read it and get the prettiest edition to go on my shelf. The fact that this is a standalone makes it even better, although I do hope we see some spinoffs with some of the side characters (the courier PLEASE??). Anyways, this was amazing, preorder this immediately don’t question it.

This book is brilliant!
I’m enamored and absolutely in awe. What a story!

We have the end of 15th century, Renaissance Firenze, the blossom of Medici rule. Artists, politicians, noble famiglias, immortal creatures, The Pope - everything in the colorful whirlwind to woven an amazing tapestry and luring us in their plots.

This book is a true masterpiece and the newest gem of Isabel!

And THE love story!!! OMG! What it was! So tender and passionate, and carrying for each other. I’ve enjoyed it so much! Saturnino - my man!! Mysterious villain, handsome, strategic, cunning!
And Ravenna - our beautiful FMC - sculptress, artist, passionate about her work, loving dearly her family, doing everything to save them, to be together.
Their totally doomed love story is everything!

I’ve got around 40% percent into the story what historical event it will include and it was so interesting to see how the author describe this dramatics, dynamics, atmosphere. I was beyond thrilled to meet Renaissance best men on the pages of the book - I won’t spoil who were these people, but I was screaming several times! I’m obsessed and in love. Can’t wait to re-read after publication in January!

There’s something endlessly intoxicating about a heroine who sees the world for what it is, still chooses to hope, and isn’t afraid to burn bridges when she must. Graceless Heart swept me into its gilded, perilous world with one hand extended and the other already hiding a dagger behind its back and I loved every second of it.

Ravenna is a revelation. She’s a character who feels lived-in from the start—resolute but not hardened, clever but not cynical. Her arc is deeply satisfying to watch unfold, especially as she learns to trust her instincts, even when the people around her try to twist her perceptions. Watching her navigate the web of lies, secrets, and shifting loyalties made her feel like a heroine who was shaping her own story.

And then there’s Saturnino. If you’ve ever wanted a love interest who could convincingly double as your worst mistake and your most addictive obsession, he’s the one. I wasn’t prepared for just how deliciously infuriating and alluring he’d be. Their dynamic is all about friction—control and surrender, sharp banter and breathless tension. Their relationship unfolds in slow, deliberate steps, each one laced with enough heat and uncertainty to make you question whether you’re falling into a trap or something much more dangerous: love.

Florence is painted in rich brushstrokes—opulent halls, narrow alleys humming with secrets, and candlelit corners where magic and politics entwine. You feel the pulse of the city as much as you see it. Isabel Ibañez brings historical detail and atmosphere together in a way that feels immersive without ever dragging down the pacing.

The plot is full of sharp turns. Just when I thought I had a handle on where things were going, a reveal would send everything tilting sideways. Ravenna’s relationships—with both blood relatives and chosen ones—are beautifully rendered. The bonds feel tender, layered, sometimes strained but always meaningful. It’s not just about her romance or her individual journey—it’s about the ties she’s willing to fight for.

For readers who like:
-Found family
-Political intrigue and magical stakes

Final Verdict
Graceless Heart is everything I want in a historical fantasy: immersive setting, clever magic, high-stakes danger, and a romance that sizzles with tension and slow-burning desire. Ravenna is the kind of heroine you root for with your whole chest, and Saturnino is the kind of enemy-to-lover chaos you absolutely should have been warned about. Isabel Ibañez continues to impress with her seamless blend of history and fantasy, and this story left me eagerly awaiting her next.

Grateful to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Isabel Ibañez for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.

The slow burn. The yearning. Saturnino.
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. It was something new & unusual that I haven’t read anything like before, and it kept me interested the entire time. Will 100% be getting a physical copy when it is released. Will also be thinking about this book forever.

I very much enjoyed this book. Isabel Ibanez is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical fantasy writers after her Nile duology, and I think Graceless Heart is an even better book! I think the start was a little slow (hence 4 stars not 5) but nonce it gets moving, I couldn't put it down. I loved the magic and history intertwining with both real and fictional characters. And as someone who's always found the Renaissance and Medici fascinating, this was right up my alley. Certainly spellbinding in every sense of the word.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Graceless Heart by Isabel Ibañez
NetGalley said “Read Now” and I said “Fine, one chapter.” Cut to me ignoring real life, breathlessly bingeing this book like it was my last meal. Easily one of the best things I’ve read this year — maybe ever.

I was hooked from the First Page

This story doesn’t tiptoe in — it descends with grace, glitter, and knives. There’s tension in every interaction, layers of deception behind every smile, and a world so lush and dangerous that I was instantly obsessed. Isabel Ibañez writes with the kind of voice that makes you feel like you’re sitting in a grand hall with secrets dripping from the walls.

The setting is gorgeous. Think regal palaces, sun-drenched streets, candlelit chapels hiding whispered betrayals — all stitched together with that perfect blend of elegance and danger. But it’s not just pretty: it’s dense with tension, especially the brewing ideological war between faith and magic.

The Church — yes, with a capital C — is watching everything. And not in a benevolent way. The Pope’s presence looms like a shadow over every decision, every act of defiance, every flicker of power that isn’t “sanctioned.” It’s a constant battle of loyalty versus liberty, of tradition versus truth. The way this book unpacks the fear and control wrapped in religious authority? Chilling. Timely. Brilliant.

Magic vs. Religion: A War of Belief

The central conflict around magic and faith is woven through every layer of the plot — political, personal, emotional. Ravenna isn’t just fighting for survival; she’s fighting to exist in a world that would rather erase her than accept her power.

Magic is feared, condemned, and tightly suppressed by religious dogma. But that only makes the stakes higher. Every spell, every secret, every decision carries real weight. The tension between the sacred and the arcane isn’t background noise — it’s a pulsing heartbeat driving everything toward inevitable explosion.


Then there is our Dangerous Duo: Ravenna & Saturnino

Ravenna — Fierce, impulsive, loyal to a fault, and gloriously sharp-tongued. She’s the kind of heroine who runs into danger without hesitation and then backtalks the danger just for fun. Every decision she makes feels earned. She’s haunted but never broken, and I loved her more with every reckless choice.

Saturnino — The icy strategist with a soft, dangerous underbelly. Controlled, cunning, and hiding more secrets than a royal vault. His dynamic with Ravenna is pure tension — all stolen glances, layered conversations, and unspoken yearning. And when the fire finally cracks through? Worth. Every. Second.


Their chemistry? It’s the kind that has you screaming at your book like it can hear you.

What else do we have... Sass, Suspense, and Gasp-Worthy Twists

Ravenna’s inner voice is lethal — dripping in sarcasm, anger, and reluctant vulnerability. Her observations had me laughing one page, gasping the next. And just when you think you know what’s coming?

Nope. You don’t.

The twists hit like poisoned daggers — fast, shocking, and devastating in the way only well-earned betrayal can be. And the political scheming? Next-level chess. Everyone’s maneuvering, lying, calculating. Especially the Pope. That man plays dirty.

Five stars. An easy, emphatic five.
Graceless Heart is political fantasy at its finest — rich in tension, morally gray characters, crackling slow-burn romance, and high-stakes magic clashing with rigid religion.

If you love:

Court politics soaked in lies and lace

A heroine who doesn’t wait for permission

Religious power plays that hit a little too real

And forbidden magic tangled in desire and danger...


Then this book is going to wreck you — and you’ll thank it.

I came for the hype. I stayed for the Pope-fueled chaos, the forbidden tension, and Ravenna, my glorious chaos queen.
Absolutely amazing!😍

Thank you Netgalley, St Martin's Books /Saturday Books and Isabel Ibañez for the eARC. I was under no obligation to review, all opinions are my own.

Honestly I’m unsure how to rate this because I wonder if my main issues with this story were personal preference.

I should have known how my experience would go just from the prologue. The wording was confusing and disjointed at times - or maybe it was just the writing style that I couldn’t connect with that made it hard for me. From the start I couldn’t find myself invested in Ravenna or her plan to save her brother.

I didn’t really like the writing and plot choices. Again, part of it might be personal preference because every time Medici was mentioned (which was a lot) I was taken out of the story because I kept connecting it to actual historical figures, not to this world she was trying to build.

The world never felt cohesive to me, especially the magic. The way it was written kept me disconnected and I never became invested. Unfortunately I just don’t know if this author’s writing is for me.

I was genuinely thrilled to dive into Isabel Ibañez’s adult debut novel, Graceless Heart - Thank you NetGalley and St. Martins Press for the Advanced Readers Copy. Ibañez’s talent for creating vivid, atmospheric settings truly shines—Renaissance Tuscany practically leaps off the page with its rich textures and historical depth. Ibañez has always had a knack for immersing readers in lush, transportive worlds, and this one is no exception.

The story centers around Ravenna, a gifted sculptress whose magical abilities make her both a coveted asset and a dangerous threat in a world of power-hungry factions. When the secretive Dei Luni task her with recovering five ancient artifacts known as Nightflames, Ravenna finds herself caught in a treacherous tug-of-war—especially since the Pope wants the Nightflames for his own dark ambitions. This sets the stage for a gripping conflict where Ravenna must navigate loyalties, survival, and the weight of her own powers.

The dynamic between Ravenna and Saturnino, the magnetic male main character, was an absolute highlight for me. Their banter is sharp, witty, and filled with emotional layers—it’s the kind of chemistry that crackles on the page and makes you grin while reading. Saturnino himself is complex, charismatic, and the perfect counterpart to Ravenna’s fierce independence.

With brisk pacing, high-stakes action, and emotionally resonant character arcs, Graceless Heart delivered everything I was hoping for. I sincerely hope there’s a sequel in the works—I’m nowhere near ready to leave this spellbinding world behind!

What a beautiful journey this was! I was immersed into this world immediately and never wanted to leave. I love that it was set in the Italian Renaissance, with art, mystery and magic (added bonus). Listing the chapter numbers in Italian was fun, and I am always here for terms of endearment in whatever language is at the core of the story.

About 75% in I was wondering how this was going to be a standalone, but I think it wrapped up nicely without rushing. If you are looking for a book that is as beautiful as its cover (that cover😍), this is it!

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC ❤

Isabel Ibañez is an auto-read author for me... so naturally I was so excited when I saw that she is publishing another book!!!! And I've been in a bit of an Italy-obssessed reading phase so this book came at the perfect time.

First off, the cover (😍). Like what?? So pretty. And I must say, totally matched the vibes of the book. Secondly, the book was set in Renaissance Florence and it was so awesome. I literally felt like I was there. I am a sucker for any historical fiction, and whenever that includes fantasy- I love it. The book was about Ravenna, who after winning a sculpture competition, is carted off by this random noble family and this guy ;). The only reason this was not 5 stars was because the beginning was a bit slow and sometimes the dialogue felt a bit off to me (I had to put the book down and walk a lap because I was cringing too hard). But like other than that it was amazing. AHHH the tension and the romance was amazing. And the setting. Wow.

Loved it! So fun- love the romance; the action. The political intrigue. I loved the strong female character and good girlhood moments of women coming together- even sacrificing themselves for one another. 5 star read for sure!!