Two of Master Painter Visser's three daughters are apprenticing with him. Francesca, the eldest shows the most promise, focus and direction. Aletta, wants to paint to make her own money, while Sybylla is looking for wealth and status in marriage. Unfortunately, Visser is a gambler and his greed forces him to sign away his daughter Francesca's life to marry a despicably lecherous man who buys out his debts. Francesca has no idea as she is allowed to follow her pursuit to apprentice with Jan Vermeer in Delft. Used to freedom and carefree living, Francesca quickly learns that her stay in Delft is strictly monitored by her "house mother" landlord. Painting is Francesca's only freedom in Delft, and her work blossoms as does her friendship with Pieter (a tulip grower from her hometown). The story of Francesca is interwoven with the story of her two sisters. Aletta is estranged from her father, and Sybylla believes her world is just right as she prepares to marry, until she begins to question her true feelings. This book had so many different stories creating one novel, Laker has you never wanting you to put the book down. The character of Francesca is so strong, she is a favorite of mine. I honestly can't imagine a person with such resolve.
She will surely make you think about life and what is important to you. ( )