A Dangerous Bargain by Cotter, Erin

A young artist who has bargained away most of his life for divine inspiration pairs up with fellow apprentice Leonardo da Vinci to infiltrate the Medici family and find out the truth about his missing brother in this Renaissance-set young adult mystery perfect for fans of F.T. Lukens.

It's the height of the Italian Renaissance. In the golden city of Florence, art is equal to holiness--and angels walk among us, bestowing their talents...for a price.

Seventeen-year-old artist Virgil is in trouble. To support his family, he's bargained most of his life away to an angel--only to discover that his missing brother is in danger, and nothing but magic can rescue him. Now, with just a few months left to live, Virgil is desperate enough to try the one thing he swore he would never, ever do--team up with the infuriating, annoyingly talented, and most notorious playboy in all of Florence, the charming Leonardo da Vinci.

As the two journey through Florence's gilded streets, luxurious cathedrals, and glorious Medici palaces, they unearth dark truths beneath the city's facade.

Those in power will do anything to keep their deadly secrets safe, but with his feelings for Leonardo giving him new life, Virgil is determined to expose their lies before he runs out of time.

Even if it might cost him his soul.

Author: Erin Cotter
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Published: 09/22/2026
Pages: 384
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.00lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.70w x 1.40d
ISBN: 9798347103966

Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 05/25/2026
School Library Journal 07/01/2026 pg. 95
Kirkus Reviews 08/15/2026
Booklist 09/01/2026

About the Author
Erin Cotter writes young adult fiction. Originally from Buffalo, New York, she currently calls Austin home. When not writing, she spends time with her partner and pets, eating tacos, and searching for Golden-cheeked Warblers in the Texas Hill Country. You can follow Erin on Instagram and TikTok @ErinSeaOtter and read her newsletter here: ErinCotterWrites.Substack.com.