Shortlisted for the Royal Mail Scottish Children’s Book Awards 2007

Paperback published April 2007

Fleeing from the murderous brigand Sandino, Matteo - a young boy - is saved from drowning by the companions of Leonardo Da Vinci. From this moment on, Matteo is at the Maestro's side as he carries out his work, which ranges from the painting of magnificent frescos to intricate dissection of the human body.

But Leonardo is employed by Cesare Borgia, head of one of Italy's leading families. Cruel and ruthless, the Borgia punishes without mercy those who oppose him or who threaten him in any way. And as Da Vinci and Matteo travel across Italy on the Borgia's business, murder, deceit and revenge follow in their trail. For Matteo carries with him a secret - a secret that both the Borgia and Medici families would kill to obtain. A life-changing secret that must, finally, come to light for all to see...

A gloriously rich and authentic story of the Renaissance, "The Medici Seal" is also both the personal story of Matteo, a boy becoming a man, and a fascinating glimpse into the world of Da Vinci.

From The Bookseller - Big Sellers chosen by Becky Standwick of Borders

THE MEDICI SEAL is more than just a Da Vinci Code for kids, though its timing and jacket may suggest otherwise. A young boy is saved from drowning by the companions of Leonardo da Vinci and he becomes apprenticed to the Maestro, learning at close quarters about the creation of his art and the late night human dissections that inform his draughtsmanship. But Leonardo is the appointed engineer to Cesare Borgia and the young boy carries a secret that the ruthless commander is desperate to obtain. This is a richly drawn and fascinating look at 16th century Italy whose skilful storytelling should spell considerable commercial success