Killing Genius: The Mysterious Last Days of Leonardo da Vinci by D. Allen Henry (Review by Danielle Urban)

Killing Genius: The Mysterious Last Days of Leonardo da Vinci by D. Allen Henry is a fictional novel that depicts the famous painter’s life and death. His death being the mystery. A small note he passed to someone close to him that was not read. What did Leonardo da Vinci write before death called him home? Then, it brings the reader to present day Italy. A couple are relaxing in Italy. The scenes are visually enchanting that it feels as if I am right beside them. D. Allen Henry sure knows how to bring his readers into his book! Everything is going swell until a phone comes in and drags the couple into a lifetime adventure unlike any other. They are to look into clues of Leonardo da Vinci having possibly been murdered. D. Allen Henry explores the history of Leonardo da Vinci and brings it to life inside his novel. The book switches from Leonardo’s lifetime to present day in 2024. I enjoyed the back and forth from the past and present times. The past gives the reader an insider’s view into Leonardo da Vinci’s lide, close ones, and those whom he competed with in art. The present takes something from the past and analyzes it in new depths that leave me wondering. Did Leonardo da Vinci accidently use toxic paints, was he deliberately poisoned, or was there other issues unbeknownst to those in present day? So many questions were swarming in my head. There was also the decendants from those who were close to the famous painter that could have influence over the case being investigated. The writer’s perspective from the historical characters and bringing out the personalities of the famous historical figures is enjoyable. The characters both fictional and real made this novel, Killing Genius, stand out. Leonardo da Vinci was talented in a variety of subjects like mechanics and painting. The way he went beyond that of his own art teacher brings out the arrogance associated with such talented figures. It made Leonardo pop off the pages. The fictional character such as the couple investigating the supposedly crime in Leonardo’s death were funny, smart, and engaging. The husband manages to figure out most of the facts and shares it with his wife. Through these interactions, I as the reader get to learn more both historically and fictionally about the world renowned painter. The characters were believable and well-developed. Then, there is also the cast of fictional characters related or close to the painter who over the centuries have feuds. It made for a fascinating suspenseful mystery. All in in all, D. Allen Henry created the perfect fictional read about Leonardo da Vinci. Although, I know very little about the famous painter, this book brings some historical facts to light and presents the real paintings and or places mentioning Leonardo da Vinci. I did not have to leave my home to go visit a museum to learn more. The book includes a fictional world of hypothetical questions in regards to the Leonardo da Vinci that others might have. I certainly enjoyed the the thrilling, dramatic, and educational experience of all that is Leonardo da Vinci. Brilliantly created in a way that both entertains, engages, and educates readers, Killing Genius: The Mysterious Last Days of Leonardo da Vinci is a must for all mystery, art, and literary fans.