The Borgia Betrayal (The Poisoner Mysteries, #2)

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

The Borgia Betrayal (The Poisoner Mysteries #2)

by Sara Poole (Goodreads Author)

3.79 of 5 stars 3.79 · rating details · 775 ratings · 110 reviews

Before the Tudors, there were the Borgias. More passionate. More dangerous. More deadly.

From the author of Poison, called “stunning”* and “a fascinating page-turner,” comes a new historical thriller, featuring the same intriguing and beautiful heroine: Borgia court poisoner, Francesca Giordano.

In the summer of 1493, Rodrigo Borgia, Alexander VI, has been pope for almo

...more

Paperback, 416 pages

Published June 7th 2011 by St. Martin's Griffin

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

Historical Fiction 2011

53rd out of 115 books — 582 voters

Madonna of the Seven Hills by Jean Plaidy

Sins of the House of Borgia by Sarah Bower

Best Books about the Borgia Family

8th out of 38 books — 57 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 2,381)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Oct 13, 2011 Debbie rated it 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
I have to preface this by saying I failed to realize this was book 2 in a series but the synopsis grabbed me since I've always had this fascination about the Borgias. The book started out a little slow for me maybe because I had to figure out who was who, the relationships between them all and who could really trust each other. Once I got the lay of the land the story drew me in and after taking days to get through the beginning of the book I devoured the rest of it in two sittings.

My...more

like · see review

Nov 08, 2011 Judy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, fiction

I REALLY wanted to give this book more stars, but I found my mind wandering during parts of the book, and that generally means that the author wasn't writing well enough to keep me focused on the story.

The Borgia Betrayal is the second book in a series of books that outline the life of the Pope's poisoner, Francesca Giordano. I bought this book at Borders during their going out of business sale, so I had no idea that there was a book that came before this, but it works as a standalone book, as w...more I REALLY wanted to give this book more stars, but I found my mind wandering during parts of the book, and that generally means that the author wasn't writing well enough to keep me focused on the story.

The Borgia Betrayal is the second book in a series of books that outline the life of the Pope's poisoner, Francesca Giordano. I bought this book at Borders during their going out of business sale, so I had no idea that there was a book that came before this, but it works as a standalone book, as well. I didn't feel like I really missed anything, but I was curious about past events in Francesca's life that led her to the position she held in this book. For those looking for it, the first book is called Poison. In this book, Francesca is on the hunt for Morozzi, the man who killed her father. In the meantime, she is also attempting to ensure that no harm comes to Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia) or his family. This book takes place immediately after Borgia takes the papal seat, and ends right before Lucrezia's marriage to Giovanni Sforza. Throughout the book, Morozzi makes several attempts at Francesca's life, and threatens the Pope's family by poisoning Lucrezia's soap with a contact poison, but Francesca was able to intercept the poison before it reached Lucrezia. At the end of the book, Morozzi managed to escape, and Francesca is left feeling upset because she let him slip through her hands once again.

Francesca is an interesting character. She is the daughter of a poisoner, and learned her art from her father. She is very resourceful, with friends in nearly every sector of life throughout Rome to help her in her mission to find Morozzi. She embraces her dark side that feels a thrill when she kills, but she is also very frightened by it. Due to Cesare Borgia saving her life in the previous book, they seem to have struck up a purely physical romance, though it appears that Cesare has deeper feelings for Francesca than she originally thought. This is a significant removal from historical rumors that Cesare was actually involved in an incestuous relationship with his sister, Lucrezia.

The historical research for this book was sound, particularly the roles that Cesare and Juan played in their father's plan for the family's advancement. Cesare was indeed upset with his role in the clergy, chosen from him by Rodrigo because he was the eldest son. Juan was indeed a horrible commander of the Pope's forces, and Cesare coveted Juan's more military role. In addition, the descriptions of every day Roman life during the Renaissance were well-researched and accurate as far as I could tell. I particularly liked that Poole included the Jewish population in Rome that swelled due to the Spanish Inquisition under the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella. Throwing in Columbus' "discovery" of the New World, and the Pope's decisions on who would hold the property there was a nice touch, as well.

Overall, the story was good...plenty of intrigue and a mystery that needed to be solved in Morozzi's whereabouts in Rome. However, the story moved very slowly. As I said before, I found my mind wandering in many spots and I had to go back and reread sections. So three stars seems appropriate. I liked it, but it didn't blow my mind.(less)

like · see review

Jul 11, 2012 Christie rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 15th-century, historical-fiction, italy, kick-ass-heroines, mysteries, romance

No spoilers for The Borgia Betrayal, but proceed with caution if you have not read
Poison.

First sentence: "'I see....' the woman said."

Francesca Giordano's story did not end with Rodrigo Borgia becoming Pope Alexander VI. In fact, her job has just gotten harder. The Pope made many enemies in his rise to power and Francesca must make sure they do not deal a fatal blow to the Borgia family. She is also involved with a secret society that tries to unravel the world's mysteries with science, someth...more

like · see review

Dec 03, 2011 Alana White rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-mysteries

Passionate, dark, and glorious, "The Borgia Betrayal" has it all. At its heart stands Francesca Giordano, poisoner and reluctant confidant to Rodrigo Borgia, Pope Alexander VI. For this second installment ("Poison" is the first title in "the Poisoner Mysteries" series) it is May 1493. Despite three attempts on his life, Rodrigo has survived as pope for one year, thanks to Francesca, who not only inspects Il Papa's food and drink, but also any item he might touch, including fabric, glassware, an...more Passionate, dark, and glorious, "The Borgia Betrayal" has it all. At its heart stands Francesca Giordano, poisoner and reluctant confidant to Rodrigo Borgia, Pope Alexander VI. For this second installment ("Poison" is the first title in "the Poisoner Mysteries" series) it is May 1493. Despite three attempts on his life, Rodrigo has survived as pope for one year, thanks to Francesca, who not only inspects Il Papa's food and drink, but also any item he might touch, including fabric, glassware, and gold. This while she is ever mindful of destroying her father's murderer and evading two attempts on her own life, all within the book's first few chapters.
One of the many pleasures of this historical thriller is the humanity the author brings to her characters. While haunted by a darkness deep within her soul, Francesca is compassionate and caring; only twenty herself, she is a loving mother/sister figure to Borgia's daughter, Lucrezia, presented here as a thirteen-year-old both excited about and wary of her impending political marriage. The same conflict regarding her secret nature compels Francesca to refuse the marriage proposal offered by the rising glassmaker she loves, while bedding Borgia's lusty, engaging son, Cesare.
Told in first-person from a distance of some years, the novel has a particularly satisfying immediacy, while also allowing the author to give her impression of events, including her take on the relationship between the fifteenth century's most famous brother and sister.
But it is a tightrope she walks with this family and, after all, this is a page-turner, one laced with Francesca's dry wit and pithy observations. Will Francesca again thwart her archenemy introduced in "Poison," Bernando Morozzi, the deadly, angel-faced priest with the heart of a devil, who, unsatisfied by the expulsion of the Jews from Spain, still means to see them banned from all Christiandom? How will she respond to her employer's latest assignment: (that she resolve once and for all the "problem" of Cardinal Giuliano della Rovere, who is plotting to oust the Borgias and claim Rome for himself?) And to the question Borgia angrily puts to her: Why didn't she convince him to kill the cardinal earlier, when he had the chance?
As always, Borgia's poisoner draws a measured breath and responds with the caution, candor, and respect she believes this man for the ages deserves, a man, who, when his temper is roused, truly is a force to behold.
Originally published in "Renaissance Magazine," Issue #82. Parentheses indicate text edited out of the magazine review.

(less)

like · see review

Jun 20, 2011 Charla Wilson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

This is the 2nd book in the series. The first book was "Poison". But, you need not have read it to enjoy this one. It is a stand alone story. I have not read Poison, and never felt I was missing anything while reading this one.

I loved that the main character was a woman, not just any woman, but a woman doing a mans job in the year 1493. Francesca Giordano was athe Poisoner for Pope Alexander VI, aka Pope Rpderigo Borgia. Francesca's father had been his poisoner unitl he was murdered. Then France...more This is the 2nd book in the series. The first book was "Poison". But, you need not have read it to enjoy this one. It is a stand alone story. I have not read Poison, and never felt I was missing anything while reading this one.

I loved that the main character was a woman, not just any woman, but a woman doing a mans job in the year 1493. Francesca Giordano was athe Poisoner for Pope Alexander VI, aka Pope Rpderigo Borgia. Francesca's father had been his poisoner unitl he was murdered. Then Francesca killed the man that was supposed to take her father's position. She became the poisoner because she knew more about her father's job than anyone.

Francesca's life is overflowing with potential danger to her life. She is part of a group called Lux. The members of the group are interested in Science, and if they are discovered reading and learning, it may be deemed as heresy which is punishable by death. Not just any death, but by being burned at the stake. Her affiliation with this group is very dangerous since she is so close to the Pope and her job is to protect the Pope at all costs.

Francesca is also sleeping with Cesare Bofgia, the pope's oldest son. It is rumoured that Pope Alexander VI will make Cesare a Cardinal, which would put him in line to putting down a foundation for a dynasty of Borjia's to rule all of Christendom. The fear of this possiblity inccreases the opposition to Pope Alexander's rule. The main threat is from Morozzi, the mad priest. Morozzi is a threat to the Pope and Francesca is hell bent on killing him with her own hands.

Not only is Francesca's life filled with danger, but it is also filled with romance. There is one steamy love scene in the Papal office that is un forgetable. There is man that lives near Francesca who is a glass blower. He has a son, but his wifehas died. Francesca realizes that she has feelings for this man. His name is Rocco and his son's name is Nando. Rocco and Francesca have feelings for each other, but Francesca will not admit to her feelings for him. Rocco wants a mother for Nando. He gives Francesca the opportunity to voice her feelings, but she will not. He tells her that he is going to marry Carlotta d'agnelli. Inside, Francesca is very sad and longs to be the kind of woman that could be a mother and wife.

This story is full of intrigue, romance, and adventure. Most historical fiction novels are centered on the Kings and Queens of the era. The view in this book is from the opposite side-the Church. It is an interesting view that I have explored very little. The people of the church were as corrupt as anyone could ever be. The Popes had misstresses and dozens of illigetimate children. They were not beyond murder or anything else in orer to keep their positions. (less)

like · see review

Aug 10, 2011 Ayesha rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: thank-god-for-public-libraries, favorites, historical-interest, buying-priority, reviewed

So as you can probably see, I reread Poison yesterday in anticipation of this book, and it was just as evocative and sexy and awesome as I remembered. I was so excited to hear that there really was going to be a sequel. The Borgia Betrayal does absolutely nothing except build on that triumphant foundation, and build on it masterfully.

We are allowed more tantalizing glimpses into the mystery that haunts Francesca's past, and are left wanting more of her wit and heart and insecurities. A lot of he...more So as you can probably see, I reread Poison yesterday in anticipation of this book, and it was just as evocative and sexy and awesome as I remembered. I was so excited to hear that there really was going to be a sequel. The Borgia Betrayal does absolutely nothing except build on that triumphant foundation, and build on it masterfully.

We are allowed more tantalizing glimpses into the mystery that haunts Francesca's past, and are left wanting more of her wit and heart and insecurities. A lot of heroines might have been reduced to helpless heaps of whining by now, but not our lady poisoner. She stands up for herself and those she loves even as she battles her own inner demons. And she does it with impeccable style - her one liners and asides often had me snickering out loud.

One of my favorite things about both these novels is the thorough development of the secondary characters. The Borgia pope, Cesare, Rocco, even Portia all have their places in Francesca's heart and she isn't afraid to show us as readers those places and what each and every person around her means to her on a personal, deeply intimate level.

I totally did a little-girl-happy squeal when I was glancing through the back of the book at the "Reader's Group Gold" Author Q&A and read this particular response:
"I know where and how Francesca's story ends, and I have a fair idea of how she gets to that point.... I have a timeline of many of the important events in her life that also tracks her development as a character. Fascinating me as she does, I can easily foresee a dozen books following this mistress of the dark as she strives to bring life into her own life and her world."
~Squeeeeee!~

For serious, y'all, this Pleases Me Greatly! Because, in all honesty, I'm really confused now with the whole Rocco vs Cesare thing. In the first book I really wanted her with Rocco, you know? That strong, silent, sexy thing was goin' on, and Cesare just seemed a little young and immature and a bit like a player. But now..... I don't know. Cesare really showed his own strong, caring side, and obvi he's sexy as sin anyway, and Rocco had to be talkin' all about that glassmaker's daughter.... I don't know what I want anymore! But I do love them both, and I cannot wait for part 3 in this amazing saga! :) :)(less)

like · see review

Aug 20, 2011 PlushyPirate rated it 2 of 5 stars

I did not read Poison because I just happened to pick this up at the library without realizing it was a series, so maybe reading that would have fixed my skepticism, but the entire time I was reading this, I remained unconvinced by the idea of a female poisoner that high up in the world. I just can't see it as being plausible, based on what I know of the time period. I could be persuaded by historical accounts, but as fiction, it didn't work for me. I also had trouble with Francesca as a charact...more

like · see review

Jun 11, 2011 Jane rated it 4 of 5 stars

Intriguing and ruthless characters, compelling plot twists and turns, and a healthy dose of gossip about people long dead. These are the elements, along with historical facts, that, to me, make for great historical fiction. Sara Poole's new book has plenty of these and more. Well written, well researched, this book kept me interested until the end. There are many references to past occurences that left me wondering if the end would provide explanations. It wasn't until I did some research that I...more

like · see review

Apr 18, 2012 Heather rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have always enjoyed this type of book so I was excited to read it. To be honest, I did not know much about The Borgias family prior to when Showtime came out with their show but it made me want to learn more. The Borgia Betrayal continues the story of Francesca Giorado show was the daughter of the Borgia's former poisoner. I loved that the story was written from her perspective and not from Rodrigo Borgia who had recently been named Pope. Although this is a thick book, it was a quick read for...more

like · see review

May 22, 2012 Stacy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Much better than Poison, now that all the boring exposition is out of the way. For the most part, I'm not a huge fan of historical mysteries, especially with the main character being a woman. They seem way too modern for their time. Same thing goes here. I would have liked to see the challenges she faces because of being a woman in Borgia Italy, not a blithe "oh everyone thinks I'm a witch" comment and then she's back on to climbing rafters and dressing up like a boy. Still though, the character...more

like · see review

Jul 03, 2011 Nanci de Suffren rated it 4 of 5 stars

This story developed slower than the first book, "Poison." The manipulation, intrigue and passion which made up the life of the Borgia family makes for a very rich environment. I will be interested to see where Francesca's story ends up. Her relationship with Cesare is fascinating. They are both strong, independent and, in their own ways, arrogant individuals, neither giving the other any quarter. Francesca is aware of how she should behave but playing it safe and following what is to her a mean...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 28, 2011 Maria rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: early-reviewers, mystery-thriller, historical-fiction

This was a fairly entertaining book and an easy read. A classic guilty pleasure of historical fiction, it offered rich detail about the lives of the Borgia family and religious politics of the end of the 15th century. However, I felt that some things were odd in this book. The introduction of Lux seemed half-hearted and didn't have much to do with the main plot. The ending was rather unsatisfying and seemed to merely be setting up for the next book. While I felt that the book could have been tie...more

like · see review

Jul 29, 2011 Hannah rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, fiction, own

The Borgia Betrayal was more slow-moving than its predecessor, but that's not the issue here. I find it hard to place my finger on why, precisely, I did not enjoy this one as much (especially given that I finished the book so quickly). Maybe it's the fact that Francesca did not do a whole lot to accomplish her tasks aside from planning. There were brief instances of excitement and intrigue, but they were flanked by filler. It probably doesn't help that I'm no fan of the Francesca/Cesare romance....more

like · see review

May 09, 2011 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars

With the end of the reign of The Tudors, Showtime has introduced us to the next big thing in period drama (and historical fiction): The Borgias. The show's debut has led to an inevitable cascade of Borgia-era novels being published, or, re-published. Author Sara Poole's first novel in her Poisoner Mysteries series (aptly named Poison) was actually released last year to a somewhat small group of fans with little fanfare. This time around, with the full power of the Showtime series behind it, The...more

like · see review

Aug 15, 2012 Denise rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction, my-fav-authors, my-fav-books

The author has settled into her story with this book and it shows. It has an effortless transition in the story (Rodrigo Borgia is Pope and one year has passed). The previous story is concisely told in order to bring readers back into the plot progression. The tension builds as Francesca searches for the religious fanatic determined to bring down the house of Borgia (and burn her as a witch). Detailed descriptions of the city of Rome help to flesh out the plot and readers learn more about the ch...more

like · see review

Sep 12, 2011 Shuffy2 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, fiction, renaissance, borgia

An enemy from her past is back in Rome, can she stop him this time?

It's 1493 and Rodrigo Borgia has now been pope for almost a year, but Francesca life as his poisoner is far from routine. Can she keep the pope, as well as those closest to her, safe? She will have to do everything in her power to protect those around her, even if that means putting her life on the line to ensure their safety.

Another great suspense! The Borgia Betrayal picks up where Poison ends.... love the chemistry between th...more

like · see review

Apr 15, 2011 Mary rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads

Thank you Good Reads for selecting me to receive a free Advance Reader Copy of this book!

My favorite books contain a strong female lead, action, and are in the historical fiction genre. I was happy to find that this book had all of those elements! (Plus a little romance and an unrequited love)

The main character in this book was spunky, smart and resourceful. I loved the idea of a female "poisoner" aka assassin in the year 1493.

I do wish I had read Sara Pooles first book Poison before this one....more

like · see review

Dec 15, 2012 Stephanie rated it 4 of 5 stars

These books are fun! Extra points for the heroine, who seems more like a real person than 90% of the other female characters in books. For instance: she likes sex; she has her own goals in life, which sometimes (always!) conflict with the assumptions other people make about her; she couldn't care less about her clothes, hair, shoes or any of that "chick lit" nonsense; she is highly skilled at her chosen profession, and proud of that; she cares deeply for people, even if she has good reason to mi...more

like · see review

Sep 30, 2012 Nenia Campbell rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: x-2011s, court-intrigue, historical-wotsits, i-burn-i-pine-i-perish, x-series-bk-2, assassins, the-butler-did-it, did-not-finish-or-skimmed, reviewed

Oh . . . dear.

I loved Poison. It was absolutely amazing. I stalked the library for weeks, waiting for some jerk to return their (overdue) copy of The Borgia Betrayal because it's been so long since I found a historical novel I adored so much. Then one day I looked in the P-section and amidst a background of a heavenly chorus of angels, I SAW THE BOOK.

Alas, it did not meet my pumped-up standards.

Something was off about Borgia Betrayal from the beginning. It lacked the driven, quicksilver pace of...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 13, 2011 Michele rated it 3 of 5 stars

This is the second book in this series. I loved the first. I loved the true characters of history. This book about Francesca who works for the Borgia pope, not about the historical figure himself. After I read the first book, Poison, I was excited to see that 2 more books were planned in the series. I looked forward to following the history of the Borgia family. After reading this book, the author mentions that there could be "at least a dozen more" books about Francesca. I feel she has gotten o...more

like · see review

Jun 28, 2011 Theresa rated it 5 of 5 stars

With the The Brogia drama playing on Showtime,the spark has been lit for more books on this family. This novel is the second book following Francesca Giorado, the official poisoner of the Borgia family. Keeping the Pope, Rodrigo Borgiain, in power has become an almost insurountable task with opposition at every turn. Francesca is also dealing with a dark past and an uncertain lover. I love the detail and complex drama the author has written onto every page. A complete page turner, maybe a littl...more

like · see review

Aug 19, 2011 Tara O'Sullivan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-library, fiction, historical

Wow! I hadn't read the book before this (Poison), but that didn't impair my enjoyment of this novel one bit...It's an interesting look at what is, quite possibly, the strangest/most controversial family in Europe's history.[return][return]The main character is just as intriguing as the family itself...So much to say and so easy to give away bits of the plot, I'll just say that if you enjoy suspense and historical fiction, or even have the slightest bit of love for anything Borgia-related, then p...more

like · see review

Apr 18, 2013 Lett' rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

http://letteraturaa.wordpress.com/201...

Une saga historique que j’avais commencé l’année dernière (je crois, je ne suis plus si sur ^^) et dont j’avais assez bien accroché vu le personnage par lequel on voit l’action et aussi les aventures par lesquelles l’auteur nous faisait passer. Bref, tout ça pour vous dire que ce livre est bien mieux dans tous les points sauf pour la fin, mais bon on en reparlera après.

Tout d’abord, il faut savoir qu’on se retrouve quelques mois après le premier opus, et l...more http://letteraturaa.wordpress.com/201...

Une saga historique que j’avais commencé l’année dernière (je crois, je ne suis plus si sur ^^) et dont j’avais assez bien accroché vu le personnage par lequel on voit l’action et aussi les aventures par lesquelles l’auteur nous faisait passer. Bref, tout ça pour vous dire que ce livre est bien mieux dans tous les points sauf pour la fin, mais bon on en reparlera après.

Tout d’abord, il faut savoir qu’on se retrouve quelques mois après le premier opus, et le cours des évènements à changé (je ne spoile pas, ne vous inquiété pas…), ça peut faire un peu bizarre, et ça me l’a fait ! En effet, l’ampleur et l’échelle des enjeux à augmenter de beaucoup et on se rends compte que c’est mieux pour l’action. Bref, pas d’inquiétude pour le début quoi, foncez !!

Le contexte historique est toujours aussi détaillé et fouillé, et on aperçoit peu à peu de plus en plus de contre-pouvoirs (dans tout les sens du mot…) qui font que dans cet époque, ça nous donne de l’espoir ou encore un désespoir profond. Bref, le contexte historique est très très bien fait, j’ai tout simplement adoré.

Que dire de la famille Borgia ? Toujours complots, sexe et pouvoir se dominent un par un…bref, c’est la joie quoi chez eux ! Je viens de me rendre compte que ça m’a beaucoup influencée de lire Borgia. Ca m’a permis de me demander si la situation était la même aujourd’hui au Vatican vu l’importance du Pape et à son attitude bonne enfant (dirais-je en comparaison aux Borgia).

Faut bien parler de la principale concerné qui est bien sur…Francesca ! Une féministe avant l’heure, une femme fatale, indépendante et tout ça en plein Vatican. Ca choque, surprend, fait peur, mais c’est juste génial de tout voir à travers son point de vue. Soit vous l’aimer, soit vous la détester, c’est Francesca quoi !

L’action, il y en a, des petites, des grandes, il y a tout ce que vous voulez, et c’est vraiment sympa puisque certaines sont très haletantes et d’autres surprenantes. Bref, il n’y en a pour tout les gouts et couleurs… Un point négatif, les actions sont parfois trop longuement, ça ralentit le récit et l’action, mais bon, c’est pas bien grave.

Passons aux choses qui fâchent, mais pas d’inquiétude, pas de beaucoup. En effet, il y a une seule choses principale qui m’a le plus dérangé, c’est sans doute la fin ! Je ne m’attendais pas à cela, et je voulais ce que l’auteur nous a fait miroiter durant tout le livre, c’est un peu dommage, mais bon…

Pour terminer, je dirais que vous pouvez lire cette série si vous aimez l’histoire (ce qui est mon cas), la période la plus trouble de la chrétienté et aussi une héroïne forte dans un contexte géniale et les histoires d’empoisonnement.

Régalez-vous !
(less)

like · see review

Dec 06, 2011 Lisa Yarde rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

As befits the story of a poisoner for the infamous Borgia Pope Alexander VI, Sarah Poole’s The Borgia Betrayal begins with murder, as the protagonist forces one of the Pope’s enemies to end his own life quickly. What may be unusual about this novel is that the poisoner who deals in death so easily is a woman, Francesco Giordano. She is an interesting heroine, operating in the male-dominated world of the Catholic Church with a reckless bravado and cunning that matches that of the Borgias.

In this...more

like · see review

Mar 25, 2012 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars

I got much more than I bargained for when I began reading this novel. Taking place in Rome in the spring of 1493 - the age of Christopher Columbus and Ferdiand & Isabella of Spain. Europe is in the Age of Exploration and on the cusp of the Renaissance period. The Catholic Church is in disarray as forces from within & out of the church threaten to destroy the newly installed Pope (Borgia) Alexander VI who is as greedy & thirsty for power as anyone on the thrones of most European count...more I got much more than I bargained for when I began reading this novel. Taking place in Rome in the spring of 1493 - the age of Christopher Columbus and Ferdiand & Isabella of Spain. Europe is in the Age of Exploration and on the cusp of the Renaissance period. The Catholic Church is in disarray as forces from within & out of the church threaten to destroy the newly installed Pope (Borgia) Alexander VI who is as greedy & thirsty for power as anyone on the thrones of most European countries/empires. As a university student, I had studied this time period of Western civilization and was no stranger to the controversies that had arisen at the time regarding the Catholic Church, yet this novel gave me a real inside view into the actual workings & involvement of church leaders and royal families of the time.

Borgia is no angel & many might wonder why he would be pope - the answer lies within the storyline: he is perhaps the lesser of the other evils who might otherwise assend to that particular throne. As it is, he has enemies everywhere (even w/in his own family, it seems) and, due to his actions and, shall we say, lack of morality he seems to be a monarch much the same way Ferdinand of Spain was. Borgia really does no favors for Francesca, I believe in employing her as his "poisoner" or de-facto assassin. Francesca thinks little of herself - believing herself to be evil and Borgia seems to use that towards his own ends - the selfish beast!

I wanted to see Francesca end up with Rocco, one of the few who truly thinks well of her and has no selfish reasons to befriend her. I also warmed to Lucrezia, Sophia, Vittoro, David, Benjamin, & even Alfonso as the story progressed as they seem to have her best interests in mind.

This is a story of early western religion, political intrigue, friendship, and redemption that surprised me with its depth. However, there were a few passages that made me realize that I could not recommend it to younger (teenage) readers unfortunately. As Francesca is the mistress of Cesare, there was a bit more of the graphic sex than I would be comfortable with my teen reading. (less)

like · see review

Jun 29, 2011 Glenda Christianson rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-from-publisher

A sequel to the novel, Poison

I normally do not like to read books that are a series out of order. I have not read the previous book , poison, but decided to ahead and read it. I am really glad that I gave this book a chance! The concept of the main character being a the “court poisoner” to the pope caught my attention. I love this unusual setting and character. All of the new books seem to feature vampires and zombies, this was a refreshing change of pace. No one single vampire in the entire nov...more

like · see review

May 15, 2011 Lolly's rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, part-of-a-series

Sara Poole doesn't betray her readers with this, the second book in her Borgia trilogy. Once again, she has created an immersive tale, a sequel which is fully equal, if not a bit better, than her first novel, Poison. Complex, sweeping, and detailed, full of heart-pounding action and intricately-plotted intrigue, Poole has brought to vivid life the teeming streets of fifteenth-century Rome, giving us intimate glimpses into everyday life, from the lowest street sweeper to the highest aristocrat, w...more

1 like · like · see review

Jun 22, 2011 Kristin (MyBookishWays Reviews) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction

You may also read my review here: http://www.mybookishways.com/2011/06/...

The Borgia Betrayal takes place in 1493, the year after the events in Poison. Rodrigo Borgia is now Pope, and he keeps his poisoner, Francesca, very close, involving her in much more of his personal affairs than he used to. She’s still reeling from the events in Poison, knowing the mad priest Morozzi is still alive and well, and recognizes a darkness within herself that may put her soul in peril. However, she will do anyth...more You may also read my review here: http://www.mybookishways.com/2011/06/...

The Borgia Betrayal takes place in 1493, the year after the events in Poison. Rodrigo Borgia is now Pope, and he keeps his poisoner, Francesca, very close, involving her in much more of his personal affairs than he used to. She’s still reeling from the events in Poison, knowing the mad priest Morozzi is still alive and well, and recognizes a darkness within herself that may put her soul in peril. However, she will do anything to prevent evil forces from claiming the lives of the ones she loves, and will do anything to avenge her father. When Francesca is attacked in her own home, and forced, once again, to kill, the stakes seem to get even higher!

I adored Poison, the first novel to chronicle Francesca’s adventures as Borgia’s poisoner, but The Borgia Betrayal is even better! Since the events of Poison, Francesca has become part of Lux, a very secret group seeking intellectual enlightenment in a time when the Inquisition was very active, and very real. When their secret meeting place is raided one day, and the group is forced to flee, Francesca suspects someone in Borgia’s inner circle, if not Borgia himself. Then there’s the matter of the mad priest Morozzi, still at large, but in whom Francesca sees the darkness that she hides within herself, but who she must find and kill, at any cost. Ms. Poole really amps up the intrigue in this one, and also the romantic tension. You’ll find yourself venturing into underground tunnels with Francesca and a group of smugglers that she enlists to help her in her cause, secret rooms, hidden lusts, and plots of revenge. Francesca gets steamy with Cesare, and is drawn to his darkness, but has real feelings for the glassmaker Rocco, and her heartache is palpable. We also get to spend more time with the now 13 year old Lucrezia, who agonizes over her impending nuptuals and confides to Francesca her innermost feelings. Their bond is very real, and I began to sympathize with Lucrezia as a girl on the cusp of womanhood who already has her fate decided for her. All this against a backdrop of possible war, and Francesca’s constant struggle to keep her Pope safe, as well as do his bidding. The title really says it all. Betrayal is the order of the day, and there are plenty of revelations and many twists and turns! I highly recommend this series to anyone that not only loves a good historical novel, but also fans of mystery, thrillers, and suspense!
(less)

like · see review

Jun 26, 2011 Allison Macias rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A woman singing, a child crying. These are the nightmares that disturb Donna Francesca Giordano's nightly sleep. Sara Poole brings us back to life in the Vatican in this sequel to Poison. Francesca, still reeling from the events in the first book, is distraught to learn that the fanatical priest Morozzi is back in Rome with vengeance in his heart. Francesca has revenge in hers. After two failed attempts on her life, Francesca determines must bargain with both the devil and the Pope. Francesca's...more A woman singing, a child crying. These are the nightmares that disturb Donna Francesca Giordano's nightly sleep. Sara Poole brings us back to life in the Vatican in this sequel to Poison. Francesca, still reeling from the events in the first book, is distraught to learn that the fanatical priest Morozzi is back in Rome with vengeance in his heart. Francesca has revenge in hers. After two failed attempts on her life, Francesca determines must bargain with both the devil and the Pope. Francesca's desire to kill Morozzi single handled has put her life in danger and leads her to make reckless decisions. Will Francesca succeed in avenging her father's death and finally be able to stop her nightmares?
I first read Poison when it first came out. I loved it so much when I heard that this book was coming out, I pre-ordered it. I NEVER do this. NEVER. (I have since pre-ordered The Song of the Nile and will be pre-ordering Kate Quinn's upcoming book.). It had been a while since I had been to the Vatican in Francesca's care, so I was a little worried that I wouldn't remember the happenings. Not to worry, I was immediately transported back. Its like I never left Francesca's side. The storyline flowed and was steady, just as I remembered.
I love Francesca, she is plucky and confident, but still unsure of herself in so many ways that it's easy to relate to her. I felt at home with her and the secondary characters. Poole is historically accurate in her descriptions of Cesare and the Pope. She even brings into the story other historic facts that are taking place. I like this because sometimes I focus so intently on one historic event I forget that it was related to another event taking place at the same time. I also love the triangle tension between Francesca and the two men of her life, Cesare and Rocco. One the man every woman wants, and the other the man every woman needs. I can't blame her for not being able to make up her mind.
This is a great book, and now that I have reviewed it, I might want to review Poison. Before you dive into this book, start with it! (less)

like · see review

Mar 29, 2012 Krystle rated it 4 of 5 stars

The first book was a surprise, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did considering how very little historical fiction comprises my entire cast of books I’ve read. I guess the pretty covers helped. Heh.

I had no idea what to think about this one. It wasn’t as fast paced as the previous one, sort of a grinder until we get to the end. I really wasn’t that connected with the story and was merely observing everything from a detached point of view. All the plot and scheming and mystery didn’t seem...more The first book was a surprise, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did considering how very little historical fiction comprises my entire cast of books I’ve read. I guess the pretty covers helped. Heh.

I had no idea what to think about this one. It wasn’t as fast paced as the previous one, sort of a grinder until we get to the end. I really wasn’t that connected with the story and was merely observing everything from a detached point of view. All the plot and scheming and mystery didn’t seem to hold my attention as much as it did last time.

It was going to be a solid 3 star rating book until I got to the end and that plot twist just threw everything out the window. It was totally unexpected and whoa, does the main character have some serious balls. Dang. Talk about exciting. That really boosted it back up to a very nice 4 star rating. Now I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

First, though, let me commend the main character. She is cool as heck. When she wants to do something she’ll go out and do it. She doesn’t need to approval of a higher authority or a male to put things into action. She’ll willingly take risks that are a threat to her life if the end result pays off with what she needs. Francesca is not some frail, weak flower who’s afraid to do things. She’s actually got some rather darker urges within her – namely vengeance – and is not above killing a man to do it.

The romance in this one has me so conflicted, just like another YA book (Hallowed, I’m talking about you!). At the end of the first book, I was totally in Rocco’s corner but after this one, I don’t know! Cesare is such a fabulous lover. He appreciates her intelligence and her as a person. He doesn’t treat her as a lesser being just because she’s female. He’s always courteous and looks out for her. And he’s also a fantastic sex machine who gets all the fun. Heh. Rocco is sweet, obviously knows Francesca’s internal turmoil between her standing in society and her duty to the Pope, but is very kind and supportive. He believes in her and does thing in a much more understated and subdued way than Cesare does. Man, I can’t choose! Ah!

This next book seems like it’ll be a fabulous addition.(less)

like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 79 80 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Historical inaccuracies	1	13	Jan 11, 2012 10:37am

combine
Other Editions (4)

Genres

Historical Fiction

133 users

Cultural > Italy

15 users

Mystery

15 users

Romance

13 users

Romance > Historical Romance

6 users

Literature > 15th Century

6 users

Mystery > Historical Mystery

4 users

Thriller

4 users

Thriller > Mystery Thriller

4 users

Suspense

3 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Sara Poole

Sara Poole is the pen name of a NY Times bestselling author who is branching out to write historical novels.
Her long-time fascination with Renaissance Italy and with the Borgias in particular has led her in this new direction. It corresponds nicely with her interest in botany as especially regards the poisonous plants flourishing all around us. Sara lives in the Northeast with her husband and a m...more

More about Sara Poole...

Books by Sara Poole

The Borgia Mistress (The Poisoner Mysteries, #3)

Brel and Chanson: A Critical Appreciation

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About The Borgia Betrayal

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from The Borgia Betrayal

“How is it possible for people to have so much power yet be so stupid?” — 7 people liked it

“The thick murmur of my name on his tongue was almost enough to push me over the edge as I clung to the sweetly strange need to hold him safe within my arms. Even, dare I say, within my body. Is it the conceit of every woman that she can provide such a haven? Is it the dream of every man to find it?” — 4 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: The Borgia Betrayal
avg rating	preview: The Borgia Betrayal Goodreads rating: 3.79 (775 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9802066-the-borgia-betrayal?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1312077459l/9802066.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9802066-the-borgia-betrayal?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Borgia Betrayal by Sara Poole[/url]

The Borgia Betrayal (The Poisoner Mysteries #2)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website