The Man Who Slept with the Mona Lisa

Roberta Downs’ compelling audiobook tells the remarkable story of Gerald Van der Kemp, an individual whose life journey took him from humble beginnings in a French village to roles as a soldier, educator, and preservationist, including safeguarding the Mona Lisa from the Nazis and overseeing the Château de Versailles. The narrative weaves between past and present, blending Downs’ own voice with that of Van der Kemp and even the Mona Lisa herself, creating an engaging and multifaceted portrait. This is Downs’ debut novel, offering an intriguing look at a life dedicated to art, history, and resilience.