In 'Ariadne in Mantua' by Vernon Lee, the reader is transported to Renaissance Italy through Lee's vivid and detailed descriptions of the city of Mantua. The book is a combination of historical fiction and travelogue, as Lee paints a picture of life in this thriving cultural center. Lee's writing style is both lyrical and informative, with a focus on capturing the essence of the time period. The book is a fascinating exploration of art, politics, and societal norms of the era, making it a valuable read for those interested in the Renaissance period.