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The Borgia Confessions
'Under Palombo’s skillful hand, the entangled world of the Borgias comes vividly to life, exposing the dark facets of class structure and the all-consuming greed that comes with ambition--and love." - Heather Webb, internationally bestselling author of Last Christmas in Paris and Meet Me in Monaco
During the sweltering Roman summer of 1492, Rodrigo Borgia has risen to power as pope. Rodrigo’s eldest son Cesare, forced to follow his father into the church and newly made the Archbishop of Valencia, chafes at his ecclesiastical role and fumes with jealousy and resentment at the way that his foolish brother has been chosen for the military greatness he desired.
Maddalena Moretti comes from the countryside, where she has seen how the whims of powerful men wreak havoc on the lives of ordinary people. But now, employed as a servant in the Vatican Palace, she cannot help but be entranced by Cesare Borgia’s handsome face and manner and finds her faith and conviction crumbling in her want of him.
As war rages and shifting alliances challenge the pope’s authority, Maddalena and Cesare's lives grow inexplicably entwined. Maddalena becomes a keeper of dangerous Borgia secrets, and must decide if she is willing to be a pawn in the power games of the man she loves. And as jealousy and betrayal threaten to tear apart the Borgia family from within, Cesare is forced to reckon with his seemingly limitless ambition.
Alyssa Palombo's captivating new novel, The Borgia Confessions, is a story of passion, politics, and class, set against the rise and fall of one of Italy's most infamous families--the Borgias.
During the sweltering Roman summer of 1492, Rodrigo Borgia has risen to power as pope. Rodrigo’s eldest son Cesare, forced to follow his father into the church and newly made the Archbishop of Valencia, chafes at his ecclesiastical role and fumes with jealousy and resentment at the way that his foolish brother has been chosen for the military greatness he desired.
Maddalena Moretti comes from the countryside, where she has seen how the whims of powerful men wreak havoc on the lives of ordinary people. But now, employed as a servant in the Vatican Palace, she cannot help but be entranced by Cesare Borgia’s handsome face and manner and finds her faith and conviction crumbling in her want of him.
As war rages and shifting alliances challenge the pope’s authority, Maddalena and Cesare's lives grow inexplicably entwined. Maddalena becomes a keeper of dangerous Borgia secrets, and must decide if she is willing to be a pawn in the power games of the man she loves. And as jealousy and betrayal threaten to tear apart the Borgia family from within, Cesare is forced to reckon with his seemingly limitless ambition.
Alyssa Palombo's captivating new novel, The Borgia Confessions, is a story of passion, politics, and class, set against the rise and fall of one of Italy's most infamous families--the Borgias.
432 pages, Paperback
First published February 11, 2020
75 people are currently reading
4366 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Palombo
5 books479 followersMy name is Alyssa Palombo, and I am a writer living and working in Buffalo, NY. I attended Canisius College in Buffalo, where I majored in English and creative writing with a minor in music. I’m a classically trained mezzo-soprano who also dabbles in playing piano. When not writing, I can usually be found reading, hanging out and laughing way too hard at nonsensical inside jokes with friends, traveling (or dreaming of my next travel destination), at a concert, or planning for next Halloween. I’m a metalhead and a self-proclaimed French fry connoisseur. I also own way too many hoodies, pairs of sunglasses, and pajamas, but never enough books.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
February 15, 2020
Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
Oh my goodness, I loved this book! In The Borgia Confessions, Alyssa Palombo travels back to Italy in the late 15th century as Pope Alexander VI becomes head of the Church in 1492. The events that follow are told from the perspective of an illegitimate son, Cesare, who becomes a Cardinal in the Church and Maddalena Morretti, a widowed country girl that becomes a servant in the House of Borgia. As the Pope arranges advantageous marriages for his other children- Lucretia, Juan, and Joffre, loyalties will be tested and betrayals are in every corner. Cesare broods with the anger of the life that he has been given and shows himself to be a very complicated man. As Maddalena will soon learn, the Borgias will stop at nothing to gain what they desire.
The Borgias were a truly fascinating family, but of course, I can say that with the luxury of not living in the same time period as them. I enjoyed both Cesare and Maddalena's perspectives in the story, even if their relationship was a very, very, slow burn. A truly memorable novel!
Goodreads review 15/02/20
Publication Date 11/02/20
Oh my goodness, I loved this book! In The Borgia Confessions, Alyssa Palombo travels back to Italy in the late 15th century as Pope Alexander VI becomes head of the Church in 1492. The events that follow are told from the perspective of an illegitimate son, Cesare, who becomes a Cardinal in the Church and Maddalena Morretti, a widowed country girl that becomes a servant in the House of Borgia. As the Pope arranges advantageous marriages for his other children- Lucretia, Juan, and Joffre, loyalties will be tested and betrayals are in every corner. Cesare broods with the anger of the life that he has been given and shows himself to be a very complicated man. As Maddalena will soon learn, the Borgias will stop at nothing to gain what they desire.
The Borgias were a truly fascinating family, but of course, I can say that with the luxury of not living in the same time period as them. I enjoyed both Cesare and Maddalena's perspectives in the story, even if their relationship was a very, very, slow burn. A truly memorable novel!
Goodreads review 15/02/20
Publication Date 11/02/20
February 11, 2020
Cesare Borgia (1475-1507) as a boy dreams of becoming a soldier and conqueror like the great Roman conqueror, Giulio Cesare. But his father has a different plan for him – to join the Church and follow in his footsteps. This strategic plan of Rodrigo Borgia is for him to reach his goal of becoming pope.
Rome, 1492: Maddalena Moretti is a maid serving in the Holy Father’s house. She takes great pride in it. Now, the death of the Pope Innocent brings her a step closer to another historical event of conclave - choosing the next pope. And she is responsible for gathering servants to prepare the Sistine Chapel for this event; still innocent in her thinking that the process is all guided by God. But she is about to learn how the Vatican really works.
Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia has been chosen as the next pope – Pope Alexander VI. And his son Cesare is now an archbishop. His daughter Lucrezia is to marry Giovanni Sforza, Lord of Pesaro.
King Charles VIII of France invades the peninsula (Italy) in order to gain back Naples. As a result counter strategy leads to signing the Holy League pact. Thus, strengthening the papal rule of Borgia. Cesare becomes less innocent and more calculating in his actions.
But ambition and lust for power take breaks, while he romances with Maddalena. This part seems a bit fake and her speaking boldly on a couple occasions. Later him, summoning her almost every night to release his tensions physically. At this point, the story is concentrated on them and the historical background of Borgias’ scheming is put to rest. Also, I don’t pick historical fiction to be reading about intimate pleasure scenes. Therefore for me, those scenes could be omitted.
The prophecies and speaking against the Church by Friar Savonarola put the story back on track. Then Cesare asks Maddalena to “go to Florence, to pose as a member of Savonarola’s loyal following, and pass on any and all information…” to him.
I wished there were more of stirring the pot by Savonarola and less of romancing. But I can see how the romance part can be appealing more to others rather than scheming.
There is one bare mention of poison, which I was expecting more of it. The Borgias are associated with poisoning, but as there is no evidence for them actually resorting to it, I understand author’s choice not wanting to integrate that part into the story.
Both characters of Cesare and Maddalena (fictional) reflect well the obedience that was expected of that time period. Cesare forced to follow in his father’s footsteps, instead of following his heart of becoming a great conqueror. Maddalena forced to marry at young age, now enjoys her independence for which she prays for forgiveness as her role as a woman is to marry and be obedient to her husband and have children.
The story also presents well the political scheming of Borgias, both father Rodrigo and the oldest son Cesare were very talented strategists.
The story gives a good historical background of political-geography of powerful city-states of the peninsula: Vatican with Borgias, Florence with Medici and Milan with Sforza. The conflict of Naples brings King Charles VIII of France crusading over the Alps and invading the peninsula, resulting in Medici family fleeing Florence and Fra Savonarola taking over and creating even bigger havoc.
It’s all very real: the alliances and scheming of those who want to be in power, and the piousness of those who still strongly believe in God’s guidance over Church and not corruption.
From the historical perspective, the author paints a very rich canvas spreading over the peninsula. Even though, I would rather scratch out the romance from this canvas, I still give this book well-deserved five stars.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rome, 1492: Maddalena Moretti is a maid serving in the Holy Father’s house. She takes great pride in it. Now, the death of the Pope Innocent brings her a step closer to another historical event of conclave - choosing the next pope. And she is responsible for gathering servants to prepare the Sistine Chapel for this event; still innocent in her thinking that the process is all guided by God. But she is about to learn how the Vatican really works.
Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia has been chosen as the next pope – Pope Alexander VI. And his son Cesare is now an archbishop. His daughter Lucrezia is to marry Giovanni Sforza, Lord of Pesaro.
King Charles VIII of France invades the peninsula (Italy) in order to gain back Naples. As a result counter strategy leads to signing the Holy League pact. Thus, strengthening the papal rule of Borgia. Cesare becomes less innocent and more calculating in his actions.
But ambition and lust for power take breaks, while he romances with Maddalena. This part seems a bit fake and her speaking boldly on a couple occasions. Later him, summoning her almost every night to release his tensions physically. At this point, the story is concentrated on them and the historical background of Borgias’ scheming is put to rest. Also, I don’t pick historical fiction to be reading about intimate pleasure scenes. Therefore for me, those scenes could be omitted.
The prophecies and speaking against the Church by Friar Savonarola put the story back on track. Then Cesare asks Maddalena to “go to Florence, to pose as a member of Savonarola’s loyal following, and pass on any and all information…” to him.
I wished there were more of stirring the pot by Savonarola and less of romancing. But I can see how the romance part can be appealing more to others rather than scheming.
There is one bare mention of poison, which I was expecting more of it. The Borgias are associated with poisoning, but as there is no evidence for them actually resorting to it, I understand author’s choice not wanting to integrate that part into the story.
Both characters of Cesare and Maddalena (fictional) reflect well the obedience that was expected of that time period. Cesare forced to follow in his father’s footsteps, instead of following his heart of becoming a great conqueror. Maddalena forced to marry at young age, now enjoys her independence for which she prays for forgiveness as her role as a woman is to marry and be obedient to her husband and have children.
The story also presents well the political scheming of Borgias, both father Rodrigo and the oldest son Cesare were very talented strategists.
The story gives a good historical background of political-geography of powerful city-states of the peninsula: Vatican with Borgias, Florence with Medici and Milan with Sforza. The conflict of Naples brings King Charles VIII of France crusading over the Alps and invading the peninsula, resulting in Medici family fleeing Florence and Fra Savonarola taking over and creating even bigger havoc.
It’s all very real: the alliances and scheming of those who want to be in power, and the piousness of those who still strongly believe in God’s guidance over Church and not corruption.
From the historical perspective, the author paints a very rich canvas spreading over the peninsula. Even though, I would rather scratch out the romance from this canvas, I still give this book well-deserved five stars.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2019
This is the first time ever where I loved a book, but did not like any of the characters; real and fake. The writing was superb and the research and passion she showed in this work is incredible. I loved learning about the Borgia's. The family is fascinating in their quest of love and power, but not a single one had integrity or like ability. The character of Maddalena was well thought and believable, but I wanted to shake her sometimes. She would drive me half mad with her decisions and then agonizing over guilt that the religion of the day would have her carry. I felt for Maddalena, but did not necessarily like her. I love the way Alyssa Palombo writes. She is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. The history and love of her subject is obvious in this book and I would recommend it highly.
I received this advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received this advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2022
This is an easily read historical fiction about the Borgias from when Rodrigo Borgia became Pope Alexander VI to when his eldest son, Cesare, left the Church, about six years later. Quite a lot of sinful drama took place in these six years!
I believe a lot of research went into this novel and I learned a lot about the Borgias and Italy in the late 15th century.
Unfortunately, the fiction part of this was very disappointing. The dialog and internal monologues were cringe-worthy and frankly embarrassing. They had ridiculously dumbed down conversations and thoughts making them all seem idiotic. Cesare was supposed to be a mastermind but spent the better part of the book having a temper tantrum that sounded exactly like the ravings of a 4 year old. And everything was shallow and two-dimensional.
I thought I wouldn't be able to get through the book if the dialog didn't improve, but somehow I admit it was so easily read that I was able to get to the end.
You can learn something here but be warned that the writing of people and their thoughts is deeply lacking.
I believe a lot of research went into this novel and I learned a lot about the Borgias and Italy in the late 15th century.
Unfortunately, the fiction part of this was very disappointing. The dialog and internal monologues were cringe-worthy and frankly embarrassing. They had ridiculously dumbed down conversations and thoughts making them all seem idiotic. Cesare was supposed to be a mastermind but spent the better part of the book having a temper tantrum that sounded exactly like the ravings of a 4 year old. And everything was shallow and two-dimensional.
I thought I wouldn't be able to get through the book if the dialog didn't improve, but somehow I admit it was so easily read that I was able to get to the end.
You can learn something here but be warned that the writing of people and their thoughts is deeply lacking.
September 25, 2020
For anyone whose shelves are steeped in the World Wars, slipping into the intrigue, tumult, and beauty of the Italian Renaissance with this tale will provide a nice break from the current driving trend in the market. As expected with a story set in 1492, this book is filled with politics in a time in which the church was deeply enmeshed in the intrigue. Cesare provides a tantalizing glimpse into the powerful Borgias. The characters are complex, richly detailed, and wonderfully authentic to the era. This is a story of power, machinations, loyalty, and betrayal, followed by an outstanding gem of an author’s note.
February 11, 2020
It is 1492 and we meet Rodrigo Borgia - Pope Alexander VI who has four children and a mistress.
The children must do what their father says so the Borgia family can become more powerful.
His son, Cesare, must become a cardinal when he really wants to be in the military.
His son, Juan, must go to the military when he really isn't suited for it.
His daughter, Lucrezia, is thirteen and must marry a man 20 years older than she is so two powerful families can advance together.
The fourth child, Jofre, was too young to even consider for anything to help his powerful reign increase until he decided it would be in the family's best interest to find a marriage partner for him at the age of 12.
It seems as if marrying into another powerful family would make your family more powerful, and that seemed to be the Pope’s main concern.
Ms. Palombo did extensive, amazing research for THE BORGIA CONFESSIONS and gave us a detailed account of the activities at this time. What a wonderful history lesson with information that was new to me.
Learning how life in the Vatican was in the 1400’s was quite interesting especially how they married off their children at such a young age and did everything for gaining status and power.
I enjoyed the family interaction, but the military planning and political undertakings were not of much interest even though these facts were the gist of the story line and marvelously told.
Also be aware that there are some graphic romantic scenes.
Did the public really know what went on in the castles with these holy men?
What a time to live, and what a family.
It seems that there was a lot of greed, scheming, murders at their whim, and other sins to confess. :) 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The children must do what their father says so the Borgia family can become more powerful.
His son, Cesare, must become a cardinal when he really wants to be in the military.
His son, Juan, must go to the military when he really isn't suited for it.
His daughter, Lucrezia, is thirteen and must marry a man 20 years older than she is so two powerful families can advance together.
The fourth child, Jofre, was too young to even consider for anything to help his powerful reign increase until he decided it would be in the family's best interest to find a marriage partner for him at the age of 12.
It seems as if marrying into another powerful family would make your family more powerful, and that seemed to be the Pope’s main concern.
Ms. Palombo did extensive, amazing research for THE BORGIA CONFESSIONS and gave us a detailed account of the activities at this time. What a wonderful history lesson with information that was new to me.
Learning how life in the Vatican was in the 1400’s was quite interesting especially how they married off their children at such a young age and did everything for gaining status and power.
I enjoyed the family interaction, but the military planning and political undertakings were not of much interest even though these facts were the gist of the story line and marvelously told.
Also be aware that there are some graphic romantic scenes.
Did the public really know what went on in the castles with these holy men?
What a time to live, and what a family.
It seems that there was a lot of greed, scheming, murders at their whim, and other sins to confess. :) 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2020
Original ~ Informative ~ Entertaining ~ Twisted ~ Haunting ~ Great World Building ~ Realistic ~ Easy To Read ~ Page-Turner ~ Steamy - Wonderful Characters
I have always had a historical fascination with the scheming Borgia family and when I saw this book I knew I had to read it. I was really happy when I won it in a giveaway.
Alyssa Palumbo has been added to my favorite authors list because she did a really good job here of portraying the political schemes of the Borgias that keeps you interested in finding out what will happen next. It is a sign of true talent to take very unlikable characters and still keep the reader interested. The Borgia family is filled with very selfish and evil individuals. You throw in sweet, caring Maddalena and you should be able to love her. But not so.
Maddalena is one of those characters that you just find yourself constantly shaking your head and saying Maddalena quit being so stupid. In the end you don't feel sorry for her because so much of what happened, she did to herself.
Overall this is a wonderful book, and I am so glad I read it. Can't wait to read more from Palumbo's pen.
I have always had a historical fascination with the scheming Borgia family and when I saw this book I knew I had to read it. I was really happy when I won it in a giveaway.
Alyssa Palumbo has been added to my favorite authors list because she did a really good job here of portraying the political schemes of the Borgias that keeps you interested in finding out what will happen next. It is a sign of true talent to take very unlikable characters and still keep the reader interested. The Borgia family is filled with very selfish and evil individuals. You throw in sweet, caring Maddalena and you should be able to love her. But not so.
Maddalena is one of those characters that you just find yourself constantly shaking your head and saying Maddalena quit being so stupid. In the end you don't feel sorry for her because so much of what happened, she did to herself.
Overall this is a wonderful book, and I am so glad I read it. Can't wait to read more from Palumbo's pen.
January 13, 2020
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway and appreciate the opportunity to read ahead of publication.
2.5 stars. I REALLY wanted to like this more. The first half moved pretty slowly for me, the 2nd half more interesting. The Borgia's are such a fascinating family in Italian history and I've read both non-fiction and fiction about them. This story didn't add much to what I already knew, nor did the imagined MC of Maddalena provide much interest for me. The chapters are short and alternate between Maddalena & Cesare Borgia's narration of the story. It was choppy and hindered the flow of the story. The characterization of the Borgia's were missing the strength, manipulation & cunning that is always attributed to them as they grabbed power. The addition of Pope Alexander's (Rodrigo Borgia) schism with Savonarola was a nice addition and I would have liked more about this character who had such an impact during the times on cultural and religious thinking. OK, it was a story about Cesare & Maddalena....
I appreciated the author's notes, especially the pointing out that there is nothing to substantiate the long-held story that Rodrigo & Cesare had incestuous relationships with Lucrezia. Palombo makes it clear in the novel that it was rumor perpetrated by Borgia enemies.
2.5 stars. I REALLY wanted to like this more. The first half moved pretty slowly for me, the 2nd half more interesting. The Borgia's are such a fascinating family in Italian history and I've read both non-fiction and fiction about them. This story didn't add much to what I already knew, nor did the imagined MC of Maddalena provide much interest for me. The chapters are short and alternate between Maddalena & Cesare Borgia's narration of the story. It was choppy and hindered the flow of the story. The characterization of the Borgia's were missing the strength, manipulation & cunning that is always attributed to them as they grabbed power. The addition of Pope Alexander's (Rodrigo Borgia) schism with Savonarola was a nice addition and I would have liked more about this character who had such an impact during the times on cultural and religious thinking. OK, it was a story about Cesare & Maddalena....
I appreciated the author's notes, especially the pointing out that there is nothing to substantiate the long-held story that Rodrigo & Cesare had incestuous relationships with Lucrezia. Palombo makes it clear in the novel that it was rumor perpetrated by Borgia enemies.
Read
February 27, 2020this is a new book from my library and I thought I would like it -- turns out it is very flowery and overly dramatic in its presentation of what seems to be a romance rather than serious historical fiction as I had wrongly thought it was when I checked it out.
I am reading another book instead of this one and will reserve the right to change my view if I try it on another day when I am in a different mood. I am feeling Poped out at present.
Later maybe.
Later Update 2/27: I did open up the book, took a revisit and found this to be something I do not care for. A load of descriptions of breasts and vulgarity including sex scenes involving pope? Not for me! Back to the library it goes.
I am reading another book instead of this one and will reserve the right to change my view if I try it on another day when I am in a different mood. I am feeling Poped out at present.
Later maybe.
Later Update 2/27: I did open up the book, took a revisit and found this to be something I do not care for. A load of descriptions of breasts and vulgarity including sex scenes involving pope? Not for me! Back to the library it goes.
February 12, 2020
I have been a fan of Alyssa Palombo since her very first book. I think she is absolutely a fresh voice in historical fiction and I am always down to read one of her new books.
Last year her book on Katrina Van Tassel was so fun and I was eager to see where her next story might take place. When I saw that it was in Italy featuring one of the most notorious families in history, I was so here for it!
Palombo always does a marvelous job researching her novels so that they please history fans but they also have enough character development and intrigue to satisfy fans of fiction too. This book is no exception.
While I loved the Katrina Van Tassel book because I love Sleepy Hollow, no one does Italian history like Palombo. Her other books have all been set in Italy and though they have been set in different periods, she always manages to capture the romance and beauty of each period and setting so well!
In this book she really out does herself and provides a very detailed accounting of various historical figures and events throughout the story all while navigating fictional characters as well as real life figures in history. Her writing is detailed and elegant as always. I loved how she captured all the political intrigue and scheming, it was really interesting and well done!
Sometimes courtier dramas and political intrigue can get a little cliche and boring, but not in this book! I absolutely loved it! As a Catholic, it was fun to learn all the papal history and events. I haven’t studied a ton of religious history during that time, particularly Catholic history so it was fascinating for me to read about. And can I just say, wow I had forgotten how much sex there was in the papal history!
If you love historical fiction then this is an author you want on your radar. Normally Renaissance history isn’t a time period that I jump to read but I do when I know it’s been researched and written by this author! I loved this book and am excited to see what her next book is going to be about!
See my full review here
Last year her book on Katrina Van Tassel was so fun and I was eager to see where her next story might take place. When I saw that it was in Italy featuring one of the most notorious families in history, I was so here for it!
Palombo always does a marvelous job researching her novels so that they please history fans but they also have enough character development and intrigue to satisfy fans of fiction too. This book is no exception.
While I loved the Katrina Van Tassel book because I love Sleepy Hollow, no one does Italian history like Palombo. Her other books have all been set in Italy and though they have been set in different periods, she always manages to capture the romance and beauty of each period and setting so well!
In this book she really out does herself and provides a very detailed accounting of various historical figures and events throughout the story all while navigating fictional characters as well as real life figures in history. Her writing is detailed and elegant as always. I loved how she captured all the political intrigue and scheming, it was really interesting and well done!
Sometimes courtier dramas and political intrigue can get a little cliche and boring, but not in this book! I absolutely loved it! As a Catholic, it was fun to learn all the papal history and events. I haven’t studied a ton of religious history during that time, particularly Catholic history so it was fascinating for me to read about. And can I just say, wow I had forgotten how much sex there was in the papal history!
If you love historical fiction then this is an author you want on your radar. Normally Renaissance history isn’t a time period that I jump to read but I do when I know it’s been researched and written by this author! I loved this book and am excited to see what her next book is going to be about!
See my full review here
February 11, 2020
Rich, fascinating, and immersive!
The Borgia Confessions is a compelling, informative tale set in Rome from 1492 to 1498 that tells the story of Rodrigo Borgia’s children, primarily Cesare, the Archbishop of Valencia who entered the church to please his father against his own true passion for battle and desire to become a condottiere; as well as that of Maddalena, a pious, palace servant who was not only loyal and friendly but a temptation too strong to resist.
The prose is vivid and alluring. The characters are bold, ruthless, and driven. And the plot is a sweeping saga that gives an insightful view into the sacrifices, struggles, hopes, fears, treachery, and entangled relationships of one of the most powerful families of Renaissance Italy.
The Borgia Confessions is, ultimately, a story about life, loss, love, politics, power, war, corruption, greed, fervour, desires, and sacrifice. It’s a perceptive, absorbing, well-written tale by Palombo that does a beautiful job of highlighting her impressive research and considerable knowledge into the infamous House of Borgia and their undeniable influence on both the Vatican and Italian history.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Borgia Confessions is a compelling, informative tale set in Rome from 1492 to 1498 that tells the story of Rodrigo Borgia’s children, primarily Cesare, the Archbishop of Valencia who entered the church to please his father against his own true passion for battle and desire to become a condottiere; as well as that of Maddalena, a pious, palace servant who was not only loyal and friendly but a temptation too strong to resist.
The prose is vivid and alluring. The characters are bold, ruthless, and driven. And the plot is a sweeping saga that gives an insightful view into the sacrifices, struggles, hopes, fears, treachery, and entangled relationships of one of the most powerful families of Renaissance Italy.
The Borgia Confessions is, ultimately, a story about life, loss, love, politics, power, war, corruption, greed, fervour, desires, and sacrifice. It’s a perceptive, absorbing, well-written tale by Palombo that does a beautiful job of highlighting her impressive research and considerable knowledge into the infamous House of Borgia and their undeniable influence on both the Vatican and Italian history.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2020
Thought provoking book set in fifteenth century Italy.
There was a lot of information to wade through and the book is based on a real family and events taking place.
Descriptive writing that kept me engrossed .
Pub Date: 11 Feb 2020
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
There was a lot of information to wade through and the book is based on a real family and events taking place.
Descriptive writing that kept me engrossed .
Pub Date: 11 Feb 2020
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
December 11, 2019
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La narrativa storica è uno dei generi che prediligo e certamente non potevo lasciarmi scappare questo romanzo che narra l’ascesa al potere dei Borgia, una delle famigerate famiglie di origini spagnole che sale al potere della Chiesa cattolica. L’autrice è stata superba e magistrale nel descrivere e narrarci la ricerca del potere da parte dei Borgia e nell'intrecciare l’ambientazione storica con la storia di una serva che ha accesso alle trame politiche della famiglia. La ricerca e l’attenzione ai dettagli di quel periodo permette al lettore di immaginare vividamente com'era la vita durante il Rinascimento. Come sappiamo la famiglia Borgia è stata attivamente partecipe e impegnata all’interno della Chiesa cattolica romana, tanto che il cardinale Rodrigo Borgia – successivamente diventato Papa Alessandro VI – vuole che suo figlio maggiore, Cesare, entri nella Chiesa e segua le sue orme al fine di diventare Papa come lui. Adesso la maggior parte di noi si chiederà come può un Papa avere un figlio? I sacerdoti cattolici non sono celibi? È evidente che nel passato – e ancora tutt'ora – gli uomini di Chiesa hanno avuto delle amanti e quindi delle famiglie, - anche se i loro figli non venivano mai riconosciuti pubblicamente. La storia ruota intorno a Cesare, figlio di Rodrigo, e alla sua vita dentro e fuori la Chiesa, documenta gli intrighi politici e gli accordi fatti attraverso i matrimoni per riunire famiglie e i Paesi per il bene della Chiesa. Conosciamo anche Maddalena Moretti, una domestica orgogliosa che serve nella casa del Santo Padre e che si ritrova a preparare la Cappella Sistina per il conclave. Ancora innocente nel pensare che l’elezione del Papa è guidata da Dio, si rende conto che in realtà non è così. Con l’invasione della penisola da parte del re Carlo VIII di Francia, l’autrice evidenzia l’ambizione e la brama di potere di Cesare, il quale convoca Maddalena nelle sue stanze per allentare fisicamente le sue tensioni. Mentre la guerra infuria e le mutevoli alleanze sfidano l’autorità del Papa, le vite di Maddalena e Cesare si intrecciano. Maddalena diventa la custode dei pericolosi segreti e bugie dei Borgia e deve decidere se è disposta ad essere una pedina nei giochi di potere dell’uomo che ama; dall'altra parte abbiamo Cesare che è costretto a fare i conti con la sua smodata ambizione, mentre la gelosia e il tradimento minacciano di separare dall'interno la sua famiglia. Maddalena è un personaggio immaginario che contribuisce a dare profondità alla storia e al personaggio di Cesare. Entrambi i personaggi si evolvono nel corso della storia e compiono dei cambiamenti, anche se in direzioni diverse. Maddalena è giovane, ingenua e impressionabile; diventa astuta col passare della permanenza nella casa dei Borgia ed è combattuta se andarsene o restare rimanendo intrappolata nei segreti pericolosi di quella famiglia. La sua moralità di rafforza nonostante la corruzione che la circonda. Cesare, che all'inizio è forte e onorevole, diventa nel corso della storia assetato di potere, calcolatore e sempre più simile a suo padre. Entrambi i personaggi di Cesare e Maddalena sono ben caratterizzati e riflettono l’obbedienza che ci si aspettava da quel periodo: Cesare è costretto a seguire le orme di suo padre, invece di seguire il suo cuore di diventare un grande conquistatore; Maddalena invece, è costretta a sposarsi in giovane età e ad essere obbediente a suo marito, anche se gode della sua indipendenza. Le confessioni dei Borgia contiene tutto: politica, religione, denaro, potere e sesso. Alyssa Palombo ci accompagna in un gioco di potere, di bugie e segreti del 1400. Il romanzo è intrigante e pieno di colpi di scena, di amore, passione e potere, di bene e male, di moralità e corruzione. Amerete vedere il Rinascimento dagli occhi di una domestica e da quelli di un uomo di potere, una contrapposizione perfetta che permette al lettore di osservare e leggere il punto di vista di due parti opposte.
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
La narrativa storica è uno dei generi che prediligo e certamente non potevo lasciarmi scappare questo romanzo che narra l’ascesa al potere dei Borgia, una delle famigerate famiglie di origini spagnole che sale al potere della Chiesa cattolica. L’autrice è stata superba e magistrale nel descrivere e narrarci la ricerca del potere da parte dei Borgia e nell'intrecciare l’ambientazione storica con la storia di una serva che ha accesso alle trame politiche della famiglia. La ricerca e l’attenzione ai dettagli di quel periodo permette al lettore di immaginare vividamente com'era la vita durante il Rinascimento. Come sappiamo la famiglia Borgia è stata attivamente partecipe e impegnata all’interno della Chiesa cattolica romana, tanto che il cardinale Rodrigo Borgia – successivamente diventato Papa Alessandro VI – vuole che suo figlio maggiore, Cesare, entri nella Chiesa e segua le sue orme al fine di diventare Papa come lui. Adesso la maggior parte di noi si chiederà come può un Papa avere un figlio? I sacerdoti cattolici non sono celibi? È evidente che nel passato – e ancora tutt'ora – gli uomini di Chiesa hanno avuto delle amanti e quindi delle famiglie, - anche se i loro figli non venivano mai riconosciuti pubblicamente. La storia ruota intorno a Cesare, figlio di Rodrigo, e alla sua vita dentro e fuori la Chiesa, documenta gli intrighi politici e gli accordi fatti attraverso i matrimoni per riunire famiglie e i Paesi per il bene della Chiesa. Conosciamo anche Maddalena Moretti, una domestica orgogliosa che serve nella casa del Santo Padre e che si ritrova a preparare la Cappella Sistina per il conclave. Ancora innocente nel pensare che l’elezione del Papa è guidata da Dio, si rende conto che in realtà non è così. Con l’invasione della penisola da parte del re Carlo VIII di Francia, l’autrice evidenzia l’ambizione e la brama di potere di Cesare, il quale convoca Maddalena nelle sue stanze per allentare fisicamente le sue tensioni. Mentre la guerra infuria e le mutevoli alleanze sfidano l’autorità del Papa, le vite di Maddalena e Cesare si intrecciano. Maddalena diventa la custode dei pericolosi segreti e bugie dei Borgia e deve decidere se è disposta ad essere una pedina nei giochi di potere dell’uomo che ama; dall'altra parte abbiamo Cesare che è costretto a fare i conti con la sua smodata ambizione, mentre la gelosia e il tradimento minacciano di separare dall'interno la sua famiglia. Maddalena è un personaggio immaginario che contribuisce a dare profondità alla storia e al personaggio di Cesare. Entrambi i personaggi si evolvono nel corso della storia e compiono dei cambiamenti, anche se in direzioni diverse. Maddalena è giovane, ingenua e impressionabile; diventa astuta col passare della permanenza nella casa dei Borgia ed è combattuta se andarsene o restare rimanendo intrappolata nei segreti pericolosi di quella famiglia. La sua moralità di rafforza nonostante la corruzione che la circonda. Cesare, che all'inizio è forte e onorevole, diventa nel corso della storia assetato di potere, calcolatore e sempre più simile a suo padre. Entrambi i personaggi di Cesare e Maddalena sono ben caratterizzati e riflettono l’obbedienza che ci si aspettava da quel periodo: Cesare è costretto a seguire le orme di suo padre, invece di seguire il suo cuore di diventare un grande conquistatore; Maddalena invece, è costretta a sposarsi in giovane età e ad essere obbediente a suo marito, anche se gode della sua indipendenza. Le confessioni dei Borgia contiene tutto: politica, religione, denaro, potere e sesso. Alyssa Palombo ci accompagna in un gioco di potere, di bugie e segreti del 1400. Il romanzo è intrigante e pieno di colpi di scena, di amore, passione e potere, di bene e male, di moralità e corruzione. Amerete vedere il Rinascimento dagli occhi di una domestica e da quelli di un uomo di potere, una contrapposizione perfetta che permette al lettore di osservare e leggere il punto di vista di due parti opposte.
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
January 6, 2023
Set in 1492, this novel chronicles the rise and fall of one of Italy’s infamous families, the Borgias.
You’ll read about Pope Alexander VI’s rise to power and his dedication to securing a legacy for his children. Yes, you read that correctly. I guess he didn’t follow the celibacy rules! His three children are instrumental in his papacy and he organizes for Cesare to join him in the Vatican, Juan to strengthen ties with Spain and Lucrezia to be offered in marriage to settle his debts.Two of the three children make their father proud, but one bucks against his father’s plan…especially when it’s discovered that one has been given the desires of the other.
I couldn’t believe how quickly I became part of the Vatican politics and rallied to support the weakest link in the family. I enjoyed how the narrative was bookended with both extremes in society; the most powerful and the least powerful. Playing these two against each other allowed for a deeper examination of power and politics. Presented with authenticity and stuffed full of political intrigue and complex characters, this book will demand all your free time. You’ll be swept up in a budding romance, political upheaval, shocking secrets, family dynamics and driving ambitions. Palombo makes history come alive and makes the Renaissance accessible. Her examination of the ‘undisputed bad guy in a notorious family’ is fascinating. I was entertained, I learned plenty and I’ve been left with a generous helping of thought provoking material.
Please write a sequel, Alyssa Palombo!
You’ll read about Pope Alexander VI’s rise to power and his dedication to securing a legacy for his children. Yes, you read that correctly. I guess he didn’t follow the celibacy rules! His three children are instrumental in his papacy and he organizes for Cesare to join him in the Vatican, Juan to strengthen ties with Spain and Lucrezia to be offered in marriage to settle his debts.Two of the three children make their father proud, but one bucks against his father’s plan…especially when it’s discovered that one has been given the desires of the other.
I couldn’t believe how quickly I became part of the Vatican politics and rallied to support the weakest link in the family. I enjoyed how the narrative was bookended with both extremes in society; the most powerful and the least powerful. Playing these two against each other allowed for a deeper examination of power and politics. Presented with authenticity and stuffed full of political intrigue and complex characters, this book will demand all your free time. You’ll be swept up in a budding romance, political upheaval, shocking secrets, family dynamics and driving ambitions. Palombo makes history come alive and makes the Renaissance accessible. Her examination of the ‘undisputed bad guy in a notorious family’ is fascinating. I was entertained, I learned plenty and I’ve been left with a generous helping of thought provoking material.
Please write a sequel, Alyssa Palombo!
June 17, 2020
This is my fourth novel, and I'm so excited it's out in the world! I feel it's the best one I've written so far, and I'm thrilled to be able to share it with you all.
Trigger warnings for the book: Attempted sexual assault, violence, murder, mention of incest
Trigger warnings for the book: Attempted sexual assault, violence, murder, mention of incest
September 8, 2019
I loved this book and the story of the Borgia's. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. Alyssa Palombo's story of the Borgia's quest for power was enhanced wonderfully by her talent to use a historical setting and entwining it with a story of a servant having inside access to the Borgia's plots and schemes to gain power in Rome. Her research and attention to detail of the time period, allowed you to vividly imagine what it was like during the Renaissance. You could easily step into Maddalena's shoes and feel her struggle between her want of Cesare and her devotion to her faith. When reading from Cesare's point of view you were taken into the struggles of family and church, how futures were plotted and arranged, the lengths to what they would do to keep their family in power and lies and secretes told.
After reading this account of Italy in the late 1400's, I can't wait to do more research on the Borgia's.
After reading this account of Italy in the late 1400's, I can't wait to do more research on the Borgia's.
November 16, 2019
This is how I want to learn about history! This was a very fascinating look at the history of the church and how ambition and desire for power changed what it was meant to be. The author clearly did a great deal of research to make the story as authentic as possible.
February 14, 2020
Everyone has heard of the infamous Borgia family who held a lot of power in Italy during the 15th century and Palombo dives even deeper into their tumultuous reign by telling us a story from Cesare's viewpoint as well as Maddalena, a servant to the Borgia family. Cesare, the Pope's son, isn't interested in becoming an Archbishop, but he knows that he has no choice as his purpose in life is to serve the Borgia family and his father. He wishes that he was given the task of controlling the military, like his brother Juan. This definitely is problem as not only does Cesare and Juan not get along, they also compete against each other. Then there's the Pope's daughter, Lucrezia, who is going to be married off to strengthen the Borgia's alliances with other powerful families. Every move that the Pope makes is calculated and for a reason: to keep the Borgia family in power. Readers also get to know Maddalena, who is from the Italian countryside; so, her world is turned upside down as a servant to the Borgias. This is especially true when she catches the eye of Cesare. If you thought the Tudors had a lot of drama and court intrigue, they have nothing on the Borgias. If you like historical fiction filled with a lot of lust, drama, and family politics, you won't want to miss The Borgia Confessions by Alyssa Palombo.
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
January 28, 2020
I admit that I must have fallen asleep during history class at one point, because when I picked up this historical fiction for review, I was not prepared. I was not prepared to learn of Papal history in Rome during 1492. I was not prepared to discover that priests, Cardinals and even the Pope had wives and mistresses. I was not prepared for the lot of it. But I could not put it down - and read it from cover to cover - a fact that has already been disputed despite its length. But I digress.
The most incredible discovery I had was the Author's Note and the Acknowledgement at the end of the book. I won't detail those, but needless to say, my eyes were opened even wider than while reading this incredible book.
So, it gets Five Stars. Not because I like the Borgia family. In fact, I did not. They were selfish and immoral - something I was unprepared to accept in reading of a holy royal family. I have to rate this book high because it is incredibly well-written and more than captivating.
We meet the Borgia family early on when the patriarch of the family, Rodrigo Borgia becomes Pope. He insists that his eldest son Cesare follow his footsteps and instals him as Archbishop of Valencia. From a child, Cesare fought his father on this matter. He wanted an entirely different life. A life, in fact, that his father gave his brother.
Another big player in this book is Maddalena Moreti, who is working in the Vatican Palace. Both Borgia brothers notice her undeniable beauty, and Cesare becomes her protector - if at a distances. Through the years, Cesare and siblings grow into young adulthood and they all seek their own desires, especially the older siblings. This continues the long-held jealousy the family dealt with leading with devastating consequences.
During these years history and its battles affected the Borgia family on every level, threatening the safe bubble they once lived in. Will this family survive battles that hit them hard from within and outer sources?
While written as a fictional novel, it is largely based on historical fact and makes me rather curious to crack open some of the sources that are provided as references at the back of the book. There is literary license in this book in order to make it flow as a story. Perhaps this is what made this a book that caught me from the very beginning. I am not sure my brain can take much more of so much history when I adore fiction, but this was a great foray into something completely different.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The most incredible discovery I had was the Author's Note and the Acknowledgement at the end of the book. I won't detail those, but needless to say, my eyes were opened even wider than while reading this incredible book.
So, it gets Five Stars. Not because I like the Borgia family. In fact, I did not. They were selfish and immoral - something I was unprepared to accept in reading of a holy royal family. I have to rate this book high because it is incredibly well-written and more than captivating.
We meet the Borgia family early on when the patriarch of the family, Rodrigo Borgia becomes Pope. He insists that his eldest son Cesare follow his footsteps and instals him as Archbishop of Valencia. From a child, Cesare fought his father on this matter. He wanted an entirely different life. A life, in fact, that his father gave his brother.
Another big player in this book is Maddalena Moreti, who is working in the Vatican Palace. Both Borgia brothers notice her undeniable beauty, and Cesare becomes her protector - if at a distances. Through the years, Cesare and siblings grow into young adulthood and they all seek their own desires, especially the older siblings. This continues the long-held jealousy the family dealt with leading with devastating consequences.
During these years history and its battles affected the Borgia family on every level, threatening the safe bubble they once lived in. Will this family survive battles that hit them hard from within and outer sources?
While written as a fictional novel, it is largely based on historical fact and makes me rather curious to crack open some of the sources that are provided as references at the back of the book. There is literary license in this book in order to make it flow as a story. Perhaps this is what made this a book that caught me from the very beginning. I am not sure my brain can take much more of so much history when I adore fiction, but this was a great foray into something completely different.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
February 16, 2020
I was provided an ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was well written, and you can tell that the author did her research. I had alway heard of the Borgia's but I never really knew much about them. I learned a great deal from this book, and it prompted me to look up more about them and the actual events that took place. I always knew that the church was corrupt, but this take the hypocrisy to another level
This book takes place in the 1490s, when Rodrigo Borgia rises to power as Pope Alexander VI. Determined to make the Borgia's family a dynasty of its own, he uses his children born of his mistress as political pawns to bring his plans to fruition. The book is told from two perspectives, Cesare the eldest, and Maddalena a maid serving in the Vatican. Cesare would rather join the military as he has a head for strategy and is skilled at fighting, however his father has him join the church to broker political deals within the Vatican. Maddalena ends up as a maid and seamstress for Cesare's younger sister. She tries to be a pious woman, but eventually gets caught up in the power struggles, politics, and lust that seems to surround all of the Borgia's.
This book is long and very detailed about all of the things that happened from the time Rodrigo Borgia was made Pope until Cesare leaves the church. I will admit that this is not my preferred time period to read about when it comes to historical fiction, but it was very well done. I will say that towards the end it got a bit repetitive as Cesare and Maddalena's relationship progressed. Something would happen to upset Cesare, he would call for her to have a lust filled evening to release his frustration, wash, rinse, repeat. While he did confide in her and they had conversations, they both knew there would be no long term relationship between them because of their stations. I don't at all feel like he was using her or she felt forced into the relationship with him, it but their encounters just got repetitive after a while.
I highly recommend reading the author's note about her research and some of the claims made against the Borgia's and what she was able to uncover. It helped clear up some of the fictional liberties she took with the book as well as confirm the actual events that took place during that time.
This book was well written, and you can tell that the author did her research. I had alway heard of the Borgia's but I never really knew much about them. I learned a great deal from this book, and it prompted me to look up more about them and the actual events that took place. I always knew that the church was corrupt, but this take the hypocrisy to another level
This book takes place in the 1490s, when Rodrigo Borgia rises to power as Pope Alexander VI. Determined to make the Borgia's family a dynasty of its own, he uses his children born of his mistress as political pawns to bring his plans to fruition. The book is told from two perspectives, Cesare the eldest, and Maddalena a maid serving in the Vatican. Cesare would rather join the military as he has a head for strategy and is skilled at fighting, however his father has him join the church to broker political deals within the Vatican. Maddalena ends up as a maid and seamstress for Cesare's younger sister. She tries to be a pious woman, but eventually gets caught up in the power struggles, politics, and lust that seems to surround all of the Borgia's.
This book is long and very detailed about all of the things that happened from the time Rodrigo Borgia was made Pope until Cesare leaves the church. I will admit that this is not my preferred time period to read about when it comes to historical fiction, but it was very well done. I will say that towards the end it got a bit repetitive as Cesare and Maddalena's relationship progressed. Something would happen to upset Cesare, he would call for her to have a lust filled evening to release his frustration, wash, rinse, repeat. While he did confide in her and they had conversations, they both knew there would be no long term relationship between them because of their stations. I don't at all feel like he was using her or she felt forced into the relationship with him, it but their encounters just got repetitive after a while.
I highly recommend reading the author's note about her research and some of the claims made against the Borgia's and what she was able to uncover. It helped clear up some of the fictional liberties she took with the book as well as confirm the actual events that took place during that time.
February 27, 2020
Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press for
the opportunity to read and review this book.
(Pub date Feb 11, 2020)
I've always been fascinated by the Borgias. The author writes from the POV of Cesare and a fictional servant girl Maddelina. It is fiction, but lots of factual history included.
Pope Alexander had just ascended the papacy, and he has plans to create a dynasty through his 4 children.
Cesare is forced to become an archbishop, then cardinal at 18. The book then tells of Juan, Lucrezia and Jorge's places in his grandiose ideas. Maddelina is in service to Lucrezia. I enjoyed reading how the author describes the unfolding of the events in Italy from 1492 to 1499. I recommend if you're interested in this period of history.
the opportunity to read and review this book.
(Pub date Feb 11, 2020)
I've always been fascinated by the Borgias. The author writes from the POV of Cesare and a fictional servant girl Maddelina. It is fiction, but lots of factual history included.
Pope Alexander had just ascended the papacy, and he has plans to create a dynasty through his 4 children.
Cesare is forced to become an archbishop, then cardinal at 18. The book then tells of Juan, Lucrezia and Jorge's places in his grandiose ideas. Maddelina is in service to Lucrezia. I enjoyed reading how the author describes the unfolding of the events in Italy from 1492 to 1499. I recommend if you're interested in this period of history.
March 9, 2020
The Borgia's Confession by Alyssia Palombo
The Borgia's are a family that history remembers as infamous.Rodrigo Borgia becomes pope in 1492. Rodrigo’s eldest son Cesare, is forced to follow his father into the church and newly made the Archbishop of Valencia, chafes at his ecclesiastical role and fumes with jealousy and resentment at the way that his foolish brother has been chosen for the military greatness he desired.
Palombo does a magnificent job of researching the infamous House of Borgia and their undeniable influence on both the Vatican and Italian history. She dramatically recreates the intrigue, treachery, and greed, The Borgia's were a family where infighting, murder and the constant jockeying for power, helped the family amass great wealth and power.
5 stars
The Borgia's are a family that history remembers as infamous.Rodrigo Borgia becomes pope in 1492. Rodrigo’s eldest son Cesare, is forced to follow his father into the church and newly made the Archbishop of Valencia, chafes at his ecclesiastical role and fumes with jealousy and resentment at the way that his foolish brother has been chosen for the military greatness he desired.
Palombo does a magnificent job of researching the infamous House of Borgia and their undeniable influence on both the Vatican and Italian history. She dramatically recreates the intrigue, treachery, and greed, The Borgia's were a family where infighting, murder and the constant jockeying for power, helped the family amass great wealth and power.
5 stars
February 11, 2020
This was an excellent, excellent book! There were a lot of chapters, but they were short, and I flew through the story. While I had some knowledge of the Borgia family prior to reading this, Alyssa Palombo was undoubtedly able to provide a fresh take on Cesare's life. I really enjoyed reading about sweet Maddalena. Alyssa is an author I repeatedly recommend for great historical fiction -- every one of her novels are great, and this one stands strong.
Thank you, Netgalley, for this arc.
Thank you, Netgalley, for this arc.
March 10, 2022
DNF at page 170
This just isn't working for me. I'm bored, I do not like any of the characters, and I don't care to read about politics of the church/religion in general.
This isn't a book I would normally pick up, but I wanted to try it out since it came in a book box.
This just isn't working for me. I'm bored, I do not like any of the characters, and I don't care to read about politics of the church/religion in general.
This isn't a book I would normally pick up, but I wanted to try it out since it came in a book box.
February 28, 2020
Who could help but be fascinated with the Borgias? Especially in the hands of an adept author.
The dialogue and detail for this book feel so true as to not be given even a second thought. So that leaves the story of the ever fascinating Borgias, and their triumphs and failings. What really happened between those three siblings? Who knows, but it’s fascinating.
I loved how it played out here, with a MALE protagonist for one! (Why can’t we have more of these!) I’m so glad it was Cesare. Also it was right that the other voice was a servant, gave a depth we couldn’t have seen without an outsider’s voice. Bravo!
The narration was sublime.
The dialogue and detail for this book feel so true as to not be given even a second thought. So that leaves the story of the ever fascinating Borgias, and their triumphs and failings. What really happened between those three siblings? Who knows, but it’s fascinating.
I loved how it played out here, with a MALE protagonist for one! (Why can’t we have more of these!) I’m so glad it was Cesare. Also it was right that the other voice was a servant, gave a depth we couldn’t have seen without an outsider’s voice. Bravo!
The narration was sublime.
December 31, 2019
Palombo's books are so well researched and this one is no exception. The Borgia Confessions takes a piece of history and weaves it into a story with interesting (yet very flawed!) characters and vivid details of the setting throughout. A great read for historical fiction fans!
June 25, 2020
Oh gosh the Borgias. There is so much juicy drama here left for us to uncover. I love how centuries after they lived they are still a source of intrigue and wonder. With that being said I loved this book. I read it after a difficult surgery when I was stuck in bed and I love how much this story transported and captivated me. The Borgia confessions are filled with power, love, ambition and of course scandal. Words cannot express how much I loved this book. Incredible.
September 16, 2019
What an intriguing historical novel. The Borgia family is fully committed to the Roman Catholic Church. So much so that Cardinal Borgia wants to be the Pope and he wants his eldest son to be in the church and eventually take the role of The Pope when the time comes.
Now that may sound strange to most of us, how can The Pope have a son? Aren't the Catholic Priests Celibate? If so, then there can not be a "family" succession from father to son. But that is where things become tangled. It is apparent that many priests had mistresses and thus had families, although not children that they necessarily publicly acknowledge.
Pope Borgia has a son, Cesare, whom he wants to have succeed him as Pope. Thus he makes him a Cardinal in the church after become The Pope.
The story revolves around Cesare and his life within and outside of The Church. It documents the political connections that are made. The deals made through marriage to draw families and countries together for the good of the Church.
The story is very intriguing, it is filled with surprises, it is filled with love and passion, but not typically for the church but for human companionship.
If you are going to read this novel please have an open mind. It is not meant to give you a reason to hate the Catholic Church, it is meant to tell the story of human companionship, human passion, human need and all the good and evil that comes from that.
Prepare to be entertained, informed and astonished.
Now that may sound strange to most of us, how can The Pope have a son? Aren't the Catholic Priests Celibate? If so, then there can not be a "family" succession from father to son. But that is where things become tangled. It is apparent that many priests had mistresses and thus had families, although not children that they necessarily publicly acknowledge.
Pope Borgia has a son, Cesare, whom he wants to have succeed him as Pope. Thus he makes him a Cardinal in the church after become The Pope.
The story revolves around Cesare and his life within and outside of The Church. It documents the political connections that are made. The deals made through marriage to draw families and countries together for the good of the Church.
The story is very intriguing, it is filled with surprises, it is filled with love and passion, but not typically for the church but for human companionship.
If you are going to read this novel please have an open mind. It is not meant to give you a reason to hate the Catholic Church, it is meant to tell the story of human companionship, human passion, human need and all the good and evil that comes from that.
Prepare to be entertained, informed and astonished.
January 31, 2020
I'm a bit of an old hat when it comes to the Borgias. I've read nonfiction and fiction about them for probably going on ten years now and I've learned what I like and don't like. I'm happy to say that this is one of the better Borgia books I've read. Alternating perspectives between Cesare Borgia and an original character, Maddalena, it keeps the story flowing and engaging all the way through. Though the beginning was much slower than the rest of the novel, it was still beautifully written, which I'm beginning to think is typical of Alyssa Palombo. I've never been disappointed by her writing style.
Of course, with alternating perspectives, you do find yourself drawn to one more than the other and for me, that was Cesare. It might be predictable, given that he's one of the most interesting figures in history, but it was also due to Palombo's skill in writing him. Her Cesare is one that alternates between good and bad (though he is mostly good). I appreciate the nuance, especially when many Borgia books place Cesare as either the villain or the hero. This narrative showed him in the right but it never totally ignored his flaws.
As with her other Renaissance historical fictions, this really showcases Alyssa Palombo's strengths as an author; building character and creating vivid setting. It was an entirely enjoyable read!
My thanks to St. Martin's Press for an advanced reader's copy!
Of course, with alternating perspectives, you do find yourself drawn to one more than the other and for me, that was Cesare. It might be predictable, given that he's one of the most interesting figures in history, but it was also due to Palombo's skill in writing him. Her Cesare is one that alternates between good and bad (though he is mostly good). I appreciate the nuance, especially when many Borgia books place Cesare as either the villain or the hero. This narrative showed him in the right but it never totally ignored his flaws.
As with her other Renaissance historical fictions, this really showcases Alyssa Palombo's strengths as an author; building character and creating vivid setting. It was an entirely enjoyable read!
My thanks to St. Martin's Press for an advanced reader's copy!
March 26, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this wildly entertaining book set during the Italian Renaissance. I, too, am obsessed with this era, and I thought Alyssa Palombo did a magnificent job of bringing the culture, places, and people to life in all of their vicious drama! Like others, I wanted to shake my fists at the main character Maddalena (a servant in the Borgia household) quite often, but it just made me want to keep reading to see how she would turn out... I also LOVED getting to slip into the skin of Cesare Borgia for a while. It's not very often that you get to step into the mind of one of history's most colorful villains and enjoy the ride while you're doing it. I thank the author for helping me slip out of the real world for a while and escape into Renaissance Italy for a very entertaining spell!
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