Kate Westcott, a gifted American art student, has come to Florence to study Michelangelo. Exploring the cobbled streets of the Renaissance city with her fellow student Marco, Kate feels the pull of destiny. And when the two uncover a chamber in a corridor sealed since the time of the Medicis, they make a stunning discovery: Michelangelos Midnight Angelsthree small, exquisite sculptures long rumored to exist but never before seen. It is the find of a lifetimeand the beginning of a nightmare.
Pursued by criminals, suspected by the Rome Art Squad, and navigating the underground network of a secret society, Kate and Marco must use all their cunning to protect Michelangelos workand their lives.
Dive into a world of Renaissance secrets, perilous chases, and artistic intrigue with Lorenzo Carcaterra's captivating thriller, *Midnight Angels: A Novel*. This mass market paperback, published by Ballantine Books in 2011, plunges you into the heart of Florence, Italy, where a remarkable discovery turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Kate Westcott, a talented American art student, arrives in Florence with dreams of mastering the techniques of Michelangelo. As she explores the enchanting, history-laden streets alongside her fellow student, Marco, she's drawn into a mystery that transcends time. Their seemingly innocent exploration leads them to an extraordinary find: a hidden chamber, sealed away since the era of the powerful Medici family. Within this secret space, they unearth Michelangelo's legendary *Midnight Angels* three exquisite sculptures, whispered about for centuries but never authenticated. This monumental discovery should be a cause for celebration, the pinnacle of any art historian's career. Instead, it marks the beginning of a harrowing ordeal for Kate and Marco. They are immediately thrust into a world of danger, becoming targets of ruthless criminals who seek to possess the priceless artwork for their own nefarious purposes. Simultaneously, they find themselves under suspicion by the Rome Art Squad, forcing them to operate in the shadows, proving their innocence while safeguarding the *Midnight Angels*. Navigating the treacherous landscape of Florence's hidden networks, Kate and Marco are drawn into the orbit of a clandestine society, protectors of ancient secrets and guardians of priceless artifacts. To protect Michelangelo's masterpieces and their own lives they must rely on their intellect, courage, and a healthy dose of resourcefulness. Can they decipher the clues embedded within the art itself, stay one step ahead of their pursuers, and unravel the conspiracy that threatens to engulf them both? Lorenzo Carcaterra, the *New York Times* bestselling author known for his gripping narratives and authentic portrayals of the Italian underworld, masterfully weaves together art history, suspense, and thrilling action in *Midnight Angels*. Drawing on his signature style, Carcaterra paints a vivid picture of Florence, from its iconic landmarks to its shadowy back alleys, creating a rich and atmospheric backdrop for this unforgettable thriller. If you enjoyed *Apocalypse Watch* or *Chasers*, you will find this book amazing. *Midnight Angels* will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Prepare to be swept away by this thrilling tale of art, intrigue, and the enduring power of the past.