The Serpent and the Pearl (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780425259467)

A gripping novel about history's most infamous family--The Borgias--and an innocent girl pulled into their treacherous rise to power, from the New York Times bestselling author of The Alice Network and The Diamond Eye.

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.

Author: Kate Quinn
ISBN-10: 0425259463
ISBN-13: 9780425259467
Publisher: Berkley Books
Language: English
Published: 08/06/2013
Pages: 432
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 8.20h x 5.50w x 1.10d

Review Citation(s):
Romantic Times 08/01/2013 pg. 38 - Excellent