Frank H. (perryfran) reviewed on 4/14/2018 + 1190 more book reviews

I became interested in the Borgias after seeing the very well-done Showtime series on them. This novel covered their history from the time of Rodrigo Borgia's actually buying the papacy as Alexander VI in 1492 up till shortly before his death in 1502. It is a novel of his life, loves, and passions as well as all the brutality and corruption during his time as pope. With his mistress Giulia Farnase and his children Juan, Cesare, Lucrezia and Jofre, he sets about founding a dynasty. His children are like chess pieces, placed strategically to advance the family: Cesare is raised to a Cardinal to further his father's interests within the church while his siblings are married to key political allies to produce Borgia heirs.

In some ways, I thought the book did not give enough details on many of the events that happened during the time period even though the book is over 500 pages long. For example, details of the French invasions of Italy were somewhat lacking. In many instances the novel seemed to jump from one event to another without the proper perspective. I think Dunant was trying to give a very broad overview of the family and events happening at the time when maybe it would have been better to focus more on one of the individuals. I would still give this one a mild recommendation if you are willing to invest the time to read it.

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