About the book: 2006 / The American writer’s novel is based on the dramatic story of the lover and muse of the great Raphael - Margarita Luga, known to the world as Fornarina. In 2002, examining the portrait Fornarines by Raphael, scientists discovered that initially the hand of the beautiful “Bakerwoman,” the artist’s lover and muse, was adorned with a ring with a ruby. Later it was hidden under a layer of paint. Who did it and why, history is silent. However, the writer’s imagination is able to complete what time has hidden from us... The Eternal City in Mourning. The great Raphael Santi died in the prime of his glory and is laid to rest in the Pantheon. And the one who gave him love and inspiration is looking for shelter in a monastery where repentant sinners are accepted. Until recently, Margherita Luti, the daughter of a baker from the poor quarter of Trastevere, inspired the envy of noble ladies. Now she must pay for asylum with the only thing she has left - a ruby ​​wedding ring.