Carol Gino Libros

After a visit to the Vatican in 1983, Mario Puzo, renowned for his works like The Godfather, became captivated by Italy's charm, history, and cuisine, inspiring him to write a novel about it. Nearly two decades later, his final book, completed by longtime companion Carol Gino, offers a captivating fictional account of the notorious Borgia family during the late 15th century. This fast-paced narrative delves into the rise and fall of the Borgias, blending historical research with Puzo's signature storytelling. Cardinal Roderigo Borgia, a charismatic and duplicitous man, ascends to the papacy as Pope Alexander VI in 1492 amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and religious conflict. He is a devoted father to four children, two of whom become entangled in his relentless quest for power. His son Cesare evolves from a timid cardinal into a formidable military leader, while his daughter Lucrezia, both beautiful and cunning, becomes a key figure in the political landscape, entwined in complex relationships. As the Renaissance flourishes, the narrative features historical figures like Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Leonardo da Vinci, though they sometimes feel more like background characters. While the story may not delve deeply into the Borgias' psyche, it remains an energetic tale filled with enthusiasm for its characters and setting. Puzo's final work is a passionate tribute to a rich cultural legacy.