The Lion and the Rose

Kate Quinn

Jan 2014 · A Novel of the Borgias Book 2 · Penguin Random House Audio · Narrated by Leila Birch, Maria Elena Infantino, and Ronan Vibert

About this audiobook

From the national bestselling author of The Serpent and the Pearl comes the continuing saga of the ruthless family that holds all of Rome in its grasp, and the three outsiders thrust into their twisted web of blood and deceit . . .

As the cherished concubine of the Borgia Pope Alexander VI, Giulia Farnese has Rome at her feet. But after narrowly escaping a sinister captor, she realizes that the danger she faces is far from over—and now, it threatens from within. The Holy City of Rome is still under Alexander’s thrall, but enemies of the Borgias are starting to circle. In need of trusted allies, Giulia turns to her sharp-tongued bodyguard, Leonello, and her fiery cook and confidante, Carmelina.

Caught in the deadly world of the Renaissance’s most notorious family, Giulia, Leonello, and Carmelina must decide if they will flee the dangerous dream of power. But as the shadows of murder and corruption rise through the Vatican, they must learn who to trust when every face wears a mask . . .

Ratings and reviews

I most loved the development of the characters! I also liked the different characters telling the story or from their point of view, which gave different Avenues of the storyline!

About the author

Kate Quinn is a native of Southern California . She attended Boston University, where she earned a bachelor's and master’s degree in classical voice. A lifelong history buff, she’s written three previous novels set in ancient Rome -- Mistress of Rome, Daughters of Rome, and Empress of the Seven Hills -- all of which have been translated into multiple languages. She is also the author of The Serpent and the Pearl, another novel about the Borgia family and a prequel to The Lion and the Rose.   Kate lives in Maryland with her husband.