The Borgias

2 books in series
4.5 out of 5 stars 290 ratings

The Serpent and the Pearl Publisher's Summary

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 - and 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.

©2013 Kate Quinn (P)2013 Penguin Audio
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  • Book 1

    • The Serpent and the Pearl

    • Borgias, Book 1
    • By: Kate Quinn
    • Narrated by: Leila Birch, Maria Elena Infantino, Ronan Vibert
    • Length: 16 hrs and 39 mins
    • Unabridged
    • Overall
      4.5 out of 5 stars 290
    • Performance
      4.5 out of 5 stars 260
    • Story
      4.5 out of 5 stars 261

    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.

    • 3 out of 5 stars

    • Narrator for Giulia sounds like she needs a nap

    • By lintoinette on 09-06-13

    Regular price: $24.50

    Free with 30-day Trial

  • Book 2

    The Lion and the Rose audiobook cover art
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