The Lion and the Rose

By: Kate Quinn

Narrated by: Leila Birch, Maria Elena Infantino, Ronan Vibert

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 . . .

Critic reviews

Praise for Kate Quinn and her novels:

“A riveting plunge into an ancient world.”—C. W. Gortner

“No other author brings history alive like Quinn.”—Michelle Moran

“Equal parts intrigue and drama, action and good old-fashioned storytelling.”—John Shors

“A masterful storyteller.”—Margaret George

Surpassingly loved this story!

I didn’t want the story to end. I have read many Tudor and Borgia novels. This one I wasn’t interested in at first because I didn’t care for a mistress’s point of view, but I was pleasantly surprised! I loved the story! It is from three points of view, and I loved hearing their perspectives of the Borgias. We rarely read perspectives of servants from these times, so it was an interesting and informative perspective. I loved the little love stories mixed into the story and the many surprises. I wish there were more novels in this series.

Enjoyed!

Both books were addicting! Story line was very good! A very enjoyable listen, loved the main characters. I highly recommend

What an excellent story. So well written!

Love the voices also. LOVE LOVE LOVED this book series. Kate Quinn is an amazing writer. She always has such strong, interesting female characters in her stories. Thank you Ms Quinn!

Lion and the Rose

The novel is a clever well written take on factual background story. Unfortunately that story is so repetitively vile it is numbing.

Story is good

Again with the modern day British slang. At least use Italian slang of the time. It’s a bit distracting. Especially if you’re not British! The dwarfs narrator is one of my favorites. She tells a great historical story of what could have happened.