This collection of excerpts is from Marina Fiorato's historical fiction novel, "The Botticelli Secret," focusing on the first edition published in April 2010. The story revolves around Luciana Vetra, also known as Chi-chi, a Florentine courtesan who serves as a model for Botticelli's famous painting, "La Primavera." Luciana becomes embroiled in a mystery involving the painting, a secret society called "the Seven," and political intrigue among Italian city-states. She travels to various locations, including Florence, Pisa, Naples, Rome, Venice, Bolzano, Milan, and Genoa, often accompanied by Brother Guido della Torre, a monk who is also caught up in the plot. The excerpts highlight Luciana's street smarts, her developing relationship with Brother Guido, and their attempts to decipher the secrets hidden within Botticelli's artwork to prevent a potential war.