Subject
Italy -- History -- 1492-1559 -- Fiction Books
Best books
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.
S. (Sidney) Levett Yeats
The Honour of Savelli: A Romance
"The Honour of Savelli: A Romance" by S. Levett Yeats is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during a tumultuous period of Italian history, the story revolves around Ugo di Savelli, a nobleman embroiled in intrigue, betrayal, and romance. As Savelli navigates the perilous landscape of rivalries and personal conflicts, he faces accusations that could ruin his honor and life. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a tense supper gathering where Ugo di Savelli is suddenly branded a thief by D'Entrangues, a man whose friendship he had previously enjoyed. This shocking accusation leads to an uproar in the room, with Savelli fighting to maintain his dignity amidst a flurry of voices and raised swords. The narrative grips the reader with intense emotions as Savelli grapples with the reality of his situation, eventually leading to his arrest and the revelation of deeper treacheries at play. The opening sets the stage for a tale filled with honor, vengeance, and the complexity of personal relationships in a world rife with danger and deception.
Massimo d' Azeglio
Niccolò de' Lapi; ovvero, i Palleschi e i Piagnoni
"Niccolò de' Lapi; ovvero, i Palleschi e i Piagnoni" by Massimo d'Azeglio is a historical novel published in 1841. Set during the 1529 siege of Florence, it follows eighty-nine-year-old silk merchant Niccolò de' Lapi as imperial forces threaten the city's republican freedom. Caught between rival factions—the Savonarola-nostalgic Piagnoni and the Medici-supporting Palleschi—Florence faces betrayal and uncertainty. Through family struggles and personal trials, the novel weaves a tale of resistance, loyalty, and the fight to preserve liberty against overwhelming odds.
Rafael Sabatini
The Strolling Saint; being the confessions of the high and mighty Agostino D'Anguissola, tyrant of Mondolfo and Lord of Carmina, in the state of Piacenza
"The Strolling Saint" by Raphael Sabatini is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the character of Agostino D'Anguissola, the titular "Strolling Saint," whose confessions explore the complexities of his upbringing, shaped by the conflicting influences of his devout mother and his rebellious father's legacy. The story sets a stage for themes of duty, identity, rebellion, and the burdens of familial expectations. At the start of the novel, Agostino reflects on his origins, notably the significance of names, as he believes that much of his misery can be traced back to the saintly name bestowed upon his mother, Monica. He recounts the painful tensions between his parents—his mother's pious commitment to vowing him to the Church and his father's rebellious spirit against the Papal authority. The opening chapters introduce us to Agostino's childhood, marked by confinement and conflict, as well as his emotional struggles with identity and freedom, setting the stage for the inner turmoil that will define his journey ahead.
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.
Conrad Ferdinand Meyer
Die Versuchung des Pescara
"Die Versuchung des Pescara" by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer is a novella published in 1887. Set in 1525 Italy, the story follows Pescara, the supreme commander of Emperor Charles V's forces, who has just captured the French king at Pavia. Italian conspirators attempt to lure him into betraying the emperor by offering him rule over a united Italy. As political intrigue unfolds, Pescara must navigate temptation, loyalty, and betrayal while concealing a deadly secret that may determine his choice.
G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James
Leonora D'Orco: A Historical Romance
"Leonora D'Orco: A Historical Romance" by G. P. R. James is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative unfolds in the turbulent backdrop of late 15th-century Italy, a period marked by intrigue, political ambition, and the intertwining lives of noble families. The central character appears to be Leonora d'Orco, whose relationships with key figures like Lorenzo Visconti and her father Ramiro suggest themes of love, familial duty, and personal ambition against a sociopolitical landscape rife with danger. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a mountain pass near Lago Maggiore that serves as a hauntingly beautiful yet treacherous setting. The narrative paints a vivid picture of the socio-political climate of the time, highlighting a cavalcade led by the young King Charles VIII of France as he embarks on a festal journey intertwined with the duties of state. Amidst the gaiety, tension simmers beneath the surface as characters engage in banter, revealing their ambitions and allegiances. The focus then shifts to the lives of three young characters—Lorenzo, Leonora, and Bianca—showing their youthful interactions against the weight of historical legacy, family ties, and budding romance. The opening, filled with rich imagery and complex characters, sets the tone for a story that promises to delve into themes of power, love, and the often violent intersection of personal desires with political realities.
Anne Manning
The Duchess of Trajetto
"The Duchess of Trajetto" by Anne Manning is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. It follows the life of Giulia di Gonzaga, the titular Duchess, as she navigates danger and intrigue in 16th-century Italy, particularly in the wake of a pirate attack led by Barbarossa. The narrative intertwines her personal struggles with themes of loyalty, love, and the complexities of her relationships with those around her, including her steely stepdaughter Isabella and the ambitious Cardinal Ippolito de’ Medici. The opening of the book sets a tense scene as the Duchess lies awake in her lavish chamber, troubled by ominous noises that herald an imminent threat. Instantly drawn into a night of chaos, she springs into action as pirate forces invade her castle. With her attendants—Caterina, an elderly woman, and Cynthia, a Moorish girl—she hurriedly attempts to escape the clutches of the marauders. The chaos and danger provide a gripping backdrop, highlighting Giulia's resilience and the intricate dynamics between her and her servants. This initial conflict propels the narrative forward, establishing both the stakes and the vibrant characters who will shape the Duchess's journey in a perilous world filled with political and personal intrigue.
Conrad Ferdinand Meyer
Angela Borgia
"Angela Borgia" by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the complex character of Lukrezia Borgia, a young woman navigating her tumultuous past while assuming the role of a duchess in Ferrara. The book explores themes of power, identity, and moral ambiguity against the backdrop of the infamous Borgia family's reputation and political intrigues. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Lukrezia as she triumphantly enters Ferrara with her new husband, Don Alfonso, the heir of the Duke. As she rides under a grand canopy, the professors of the university accompany her, each pondering the contradictions of her existence—one reflecting on her innocence, another on her dark lineage filled with treachery and betrayal. Meanwhile, Angela Borgia, her relative and lady-in-waiting, observes the spectacle, grappling with the shadows of their shared past. This opening portion sets the stage for the intricate relationships and potential conflicts that will unfold, as Angela becomes a witness to the interplay of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal that defines the Borgia legacy.
Conrad Ferdinand Meyer
Pescara : $b Novelli
"Pescara: Novelli" by Conrad Ferdinand Meyer is a novella published in 1887. Set in 16th-century Italy, it follows Fernando Francesco d'Avalos di Pescara, supreme commander of Emperor Charles V's forces, after his victory at Pavia. Italian conspirators, seeking to unite their fractured land, attempt to tempt the wounded general into betrayal with promises of kingship. As political intrigue swirls around him, Pescara must navigate loyalty, honor, and ambition while concealing his true intentions from all sides, including his devoted wife Viktoria.
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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