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Borgia, Cesare, 1476?-1507 -- Fiction Books
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Rafael Sabatini
Love-at-arms : $b being a narrative excerpted from the chronicles of Urbino, during the dominion of the high and mighty Messer Guidobaldo da Montefeltro
"Love-at-arms: Being a narrative excerpted from the chronicles of Urbino" by Raphael Sabatini is a historical novel set during the late 15th to early 16th century, a tumultuous time in Italian history marked by political intrigue and power struggles among the noble houses. The story revolves around Francesco del Falco, the Count of Aquila, who becomes embroiled in conspiracy and treachery as he is approached by nobles seeking to dethrone Gian Maria Sforza, the self-indulgent Duke of Babbiano. The narrative promises themes of loyalty, ambition, and the conflicts between personal integrity and political duty. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a clandestine meeting held by several discontented nobles in a hovel, where they discuss their grievances against Duke Gian Maria. As tensions rise with fears of betrayal by a lurking spy, the ancient noble Fabrizio da Lodi proposes a bold plan to replace the Duke with the Count of Aquila, emphasizing his courage and reputation. The Count expresses reluctance due to his ties to the Duke but ultimately agrees to aid them in seeking reforms. The opening chapters set the stage for an intense power struggle within the backdrop of romantic entanglements, specifically highlighting the fate of Valentina della Rovere, the Duke's betrothed, and her interactions with Aquila, amid the prevailing atmosphere of conspiratorial danger that surrounds them.
Rafael Sabatini
The Shame of Motley: being the memoir of certain transactions in the life of Lazzaro Biancomonte, of Biancomonte, sometime fool of the court of Pesaro
"The Shame of Motley: being the memoir of certain transactions in the life of Lazzaro Biancomonte, of Biancomonte, sometime Fool of the Court of Pesaro" by Rafael Sabatini is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. This engaging tale follows the protagonist, Lazzaro Biancomonte, a former court jester who seeks redemption and meaningful employment after a life spent in the shadow of folly. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous political landscape involving the Borgia family, Lazzaro's journey intertwines themes of identity, honor, and revenge, positioning him as a compelling character striving for a dignified existence. The opening of the memoir reveals Lazzaro cooling his heels at the Vatican, anxiously awaiting an audience with the Cardinal of Valencia, hoping for a chance to escape his disgraceful past as a fool. The narrative captures his impatience and indignation as he grapples with the shame of his motley attire, which signifies his role in the court of Pesaro. When he finally receives a summons from the Cardinal, Lazzaro's hopes soar that he will escape the mockery of his former life and reclaim his identity. The encounter swiftly turns into a pivotal moment as the Cardinal tasks him with a secretive and crucial mission involving a letter meant to affect the power dynamics in Pesaro, thus thrusting Lazzaro into a web of intrigue and destiny.
Rafael Sabatini
Aseistettu rakkaus
"Aseistettu rakkaus" by Rafael Sabatini is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against a backdrop of intrigue and political machinations in Renaissance Italy, particularly focusing on the character Francesco del Falco, known as Aquila, who finds himself embroiled in conspiracies against the Duke of Babbiano. At the start of the novel, a group of noblemen, including Francesco, gathers in a humble tavern, engaged in a secretive meeting. They discuss the rising threat posed by the Duke, Gian Maria Sforza, who is characterized by his reckless indulgence and negligence towards state affairs. During this meeting, it is revealed that a spy, Masuccio Torri, has been lurking nearby, causing tension and fear of betrayal among the conspirators. Recognizing the urgency of their situation, the nobles contemplate joining forces to overthrow the Duke, with Aquila being a pivotal figure in this plot, leading them into a spiral of adventure and danger.
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