Leonardo's Swans

The novel delves deep into the artistic and political world of Leonardo, but I'm curious what motivated this particular angle. Was it based on historical clues or creative imagination?

The subtle yet intense romance added a layer of emotional depth. Did the romantic subplot enhance your connection to the characters or feel like a distraction from the historical details?

While it's a work of fiction, I wonder how much was drawn directly from historical sources versus creative liberties. Did anyone else feel surprised by any of the portrayals?