Picture an American storyteller who transforms dusty Renaissance rivalries into page-turning thrillers—meet Stephanie Storey! With a knack for blending art history and gripping fiction, Storey has carved a unique niche in historical novels. Her bestsellers, like Oil and Marble and Raphael, Painter in Rome, bring legendary artists to life, making readers feel like they’re eavesdropping on Michelangelo’s studio rants or Leonardo’s late-night sketches.
Storey’s journey is as vibrant as her prose. A television producer, art enthusiast, and globe-trotter, she weaves her diverse experiences into stories that captivate and educate. Let’s dive into the world of Stephanie Storey, where Renaissance masters leap off the page and into your imagination.
The Making of Stephanie Storey
Born with a passion for storytelling, Stephanie Storey grew up in Arkansas, where her family’s cross-country motorhome adventures sparked her love for exploration. After graduating cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Fine Arts, she studied art in Italy and briefly pursued a PhD in Art History at Washington University. But her creative spark led her to an MFA in Creative Writing from Emerson College. Storey’s television career, producing shows like The Arsenio Hall Show and the Emmy-nominated The Writers’ Room, honed her ability to craft compelling narratives under tight deadlines—a skill that shines in her novels.
Stephanie Storey’s Unforgettable Stories
Storey’s debut novel, Oil and Marble: A Novel of Leonardo and Michelangelo, is a Los Angeles Times bestseller that dives into the fiery rivalry between two Renaissance giants. Set in 1501–1505 Florence, it captures Leonardo da Vinci painting the Mona Lisa while Michelangelo carves the David. The New York Times called it “tremendously entertaining,” praising its vivid portrayal of artistic ambition and genius.
Her follow-up, Raphael, Painter in Rome, released in 2020 to mark the 500th anniversary of Raphael’s death, pits the charming young painter against Michelangelo in the Vatican’s deadly halls. Storey’s painterly prose and meticulous research make readers feel the brushstrokes and political intrigue. Her style blends historical accuracy with thrilling drama, offering a fresh lens on art history that appeals to both enthusiasts and casual readers.
Storey’s novels stand out for their empathetic portrayal of artists as flawed, driven humans. Themes of ambition, rivalry, and creativity resonate, making her work a masterclass in historical fiction that educates without feeling like a lecture.
Why Stephanie Storey Matters
Stephanie Storey has redefined art historical fiction, making the Renaissance accessible and thrilling. Her novels inspire readers to explore museums and delve into art history, bridging past and present with infectious enthusiasm. By humanizing icons like Leonardo and Raphael, she reminds us that genius is born from struggle and passion. Her work, translated into multiple languages and in development for film, has cemented her as a vital voice in historical fiction.
As a speaker and educator, Storey’s workshops and talks spark creativity, drawing praise for their insight and energy. Her unique blend of art, history, and storytelling continues to inspire a new generation of readers and writers.
- Key Works: Oil and Marble (2016), Raphael, Painter in Rome (2020)
- Awards: Los Angeles Times Bestseller, Hudson Booksellers’ Best Book of 2016
- Fun Fact: Married at Disneyland on Leap Day 2004 to Emmy-winning comedy writer Mike Gandolfi
About Stephanie Storey
Ready to time-travel to the Renaissance? Snag Oil and Marble and dive into Stephanie Storey’s thrilling world of art and rivalry!