The story follows the lives of Giulia Farnese, a courtesan; Carmelina, a talented cook with secrets; and Rodrigo Borgia, who rises to become Pope Alexander VI.
Set in Renaissance Italy, it explores power, seduction, and betrayal in the Vatican and Rome’s opulent society.
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Rome, 1492. The Holy City is drenched with blood and teeming with secrets. A pope lies dying and the throne of God is left vacant, a prize awarded only to the most virtuous—or the most ruthless. The Borgia family begins its legendary rise, chronicled by an innocent girl who finds herself drawn into their dangerous web…
Vivacious Giulia Farnese has floor-length golden hair and the world at her feet: beauty, wealth, and a handsome young husband. But she is stunned to discover that her glittering marriage is a sham, and she is to be given as a concubine to the ruthless, charismatic Cardinal Borgia: Spaniard, sensualist, candidate for Pope—who is passionately in love with her.
Two trusted companions will follow her into the Pope’s shadowy harem: Leonello, a cynical bodyguard bent on bloody revenge against a mysterious killer, and Carmelina, a fiery cook with a past full of secrets. But as corruption thickens in the Vatican and the enemies begin to circle, Giulia and her friends will need all their wits to survive in the world of the Borgias.
About the Author
Kate Quinn is a New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction. She holds a master’s degree in Classical Voice from Boston University and is a lifelong history buff.
Kate Quinn is a native of Southern California and has gained recognition for her expertise in crafting historical narratives set in various periods, often with strong female characters.
What to read next
If you’ve already completed this series, I’d suggest reading more books by Kate Quinn such as The Empress of Rome series. You can find a full list of Kate Quinn’s books on the link below.
