Review: The Scarlet Contessa (Jeanne Kalogridis)

Jeanne Kalogridis has made a name for herself writing fiction based on women during the Renaissance. I've enjoyed her work so far, even if she does do some weird things in her stories once in a while. Her books definitely entertain.

Her latest, although the dust cover and the title make it seem like the story focuses Caterina Sforza, countess and all around super cool female leader who fought against Cesare Borgia. Actually, Caterina's lady, Dea, narrates the story. Indeed, this is more her journey than Caterina's. Dea has a gift for seeing the future, which comes in handy once in while even though she can't control it.

Several famous folks from Renaissance Italy make an appearance in this novel. Lorenzo de Medici visits the Sforza's in Milan early in the novel. And, of course, the Borgias play a pivotal role. Caterina holds her own against all of them. I kind of wish the story had her perspective, but Dea makes a great narrator. She may not be as outwardly exciting as Caterina Sforza, but she still gives the story a lot of drama.

Of course, there are dramatic revelations that have no basis on the historical record, but who cares. It's fiction and it's fun. If you've read anything by Kalogridis before, then you know what to expect. I still like The Borgia Bride better, though.

Next: A Curtain Falls, by Stefanie Pintoff