This book goes into the history of the House Of Borgia, an Italian-Aragonese Spanish Noble family. The family was from the area of Valencia, and rose to new heights during the Italian Renaissance. (Which happens to be one of my favorite time periods to read about, simply because I love the art.) There are some very notable names within this family of notable people. Alfons was a diplomat for the King of Aragon before becoming a Cardinal, eventually being elected Pope Callixtus III. Alfons' nephew, Rodrigo also achieved Pope status, taking the name Pope Alexander VI. My favorite Borgia to read about was, clearly, Lucrezia. I had heard a lot about her from a couple of history podcasts that I listen to, as well as reading about her in brief passing several times. I was very pleased to get the opportunity to read more about her. She was the daughter of Rodrigo and his mistress from when he was still only a Cardinal. She was married off to a family to strengthen Rodrigo's power as Pope, but the marriage did not last...suspiciously. She was notorious for her conversational skills, as well as her manipulation and political interference. After her, throughout the generations, this noble family tree has offered up some brilliant artisians and even a President. Of course, as with any family, there are skeletons in some closets. It was interesting to see the backstabbing, back room deals, and the murder conspiracies within this prominent family.

My husband actually brought this book back from his last deployment, so I appreciate him for thinking of me and I always appreciate a book gift. It took me a while to get around to it, but it was well worth the wait. I learned a great deal about this family, and it was such an enjoyable read to me. I love reading about family dynasties, so this was certainly right up my alley. I think the writing was very well done and objective, as well as well researched. I am very interested to look up some of the work from the poets and painters that were in this family, since I am also a lover of art. If you are interested in nobility or family dynasties, this may be a good book for you to look into. I was very pleased with it.