Book Blurb:
Caterina Sforza, Countess of Imola and Forli, dares to dream that her old life of treachery and despair is finally over. But after tragedy strikes, Caterina must rule as regent for her young son while navigating the intrigues of the rest of Italy and continuing to raise her family.
Along with her trusted advisors, as well as new friends, Caterina rules fairly but firmly. And, when dealing with her enemies, her retribution is fierce. But Fate isn’t finished with her yet.
In part two of Caterina’s turbulent story, she finds her path strewn with more pain, death, and bloodshed, and must keep fighting for her territories and her rights as a ruler. But when she faces the Borgia Pope’s eldest son, Cesare, Caterina realises she is fighting for more than just her lands: this time she’s fighting for her life.
“Could I write all, the world would turn to stone.”
Book Buy Link: https://geni.us/2IHM3
Author Bio:
Welcome to my page! I started writing in high school and have always been fascinated by history, eventually earning a degree in the subject. The merging of the two came naturally when I started writing full time a few years ago.
In my alternate identity as Lady Matilda, I post satirical articles on managing your medieval manor during the Black Death.
Editorial Review:
“"Hold your arm straight, like Mama." Ottaviano looked up at Caterina, who stood holding a sword in her right hand. He raised his miniature version of his mother's weapon as his sword master looked on. Matteo Fallaci was from Forli but was just as talented as any weapons instructor from Rome. Flicking his head to the side to move a lock of his dark hair from his face, he examined Caterina’s stance with a practised eye. "Your Mama knows how to wield a sword as well as any man. She practises often. Look carefully at her, young master."
Catherina Sforza – a real-life mother and 15th century Italian noblewoman inextricably entwined with myth and legend. But what is the truth? What was her personality, her motivation, her life and times? All those questions are convincingly answered, or at least discussed, in the riveting historical novel “Turning the World to Stone” by Kelly Evans. This review is of Part Two, which this reviewer has happily read as a standalone (and is now going in search of Part One to learn more about the fascinating Caterina!). A cast of characters in the first pages, and an additional author’s note, provides more detail about the background and setting for “Turning the World to Stone”.
The reader is drawn in right from the start of this novel, both with information about Caterina’s unorthodox life, and references to what is a compelling era of European history (aren’t they all!). There is immediate mention of Caterina’s formidable sword skills, which sets the scene for the turbulence of her life. Of course she is the main character, and the thorough research the author has undertaken is obvious. Understandably, the story is embellished through the addition of extra characters who may or may not have been a part of Caterina’s life, however this is made clear in the author’s note and these choices are careful and add to the narrative. Caterina is a strong woman – and she needs to be – with what seems like more children (and husbands!) than many would see in a lifetime. But such family frameworks are to be expected in this historical time, where life is perilous and the concepts and practicalities of birth control are nebulous at best.
The question of a woman’s personal agency during these times is always a vexed one, and the full background of Caterina’s marriages is particularly troubling, particularly when viewed through a modern lens. While there are aspects of this harsh historical reality in “Turning the World to Stone”, the overarching theme is one of Caterina’s strength and her determination to turn her circumstances to her advantage. At one stage in her life she was the regent for her young son Ottaviano, and Caterina is seen by turn negotiating with soldiers, and also fretting about her children. Evans has skilfully balanced these facets of Caterina’s personality to portray a well-rounded and complex historical figure in a sympathetic and compelling way.
Cesare Borgia (surely the pinnacle of villains) also makes an appearance, as evil as ever, with sinuous dialogue and a dangerous charm that is unfortunately all too real. His inclusion is a mark of the religious and political turmoil that permeates this novel. At times some readers may find this detail weighty, but it does add to the realism of the narrative.
“Cesare talked while they ate. "I see you're wearing the outfit I got you, excellent." He took a mouthful of salted tuna pie before continuing. He shared news from around Italy, but it was nothing of any great importance. Then, "Your uncle has retaken Milan." Caterina couldn't help the surprised look that flashed across her face. "Yes, he hired himself an army of Swiss mercenaries and took it back from the French." "When he finds out what you've done to me, he'll send those mercenaries to fight you," Caterina replied evenly.”
The pacing of the story is balanced and clearly shows the reader the progression of Caterina’s character arc, and the growth of her family as she battles to keep them (and herself) safe from harm. Like any well-researched historical novel, the character arcs are of course based on historical fact, rather than merely on theoretical concepts of plot.
“On the 18th of August, the Borgia Pope, Alexander, died of a fever. At the same time, Cesare Borgia lay in bed ill with the same fever that had taken his father. Caterina never bothered to keep track of her past enemies. She'd learned there was no point in worrying. But Cesare Borgia was different. She always had to know where he was in case he decided there was some unfinished business between them. "Good. Maybe he'll die and rid the world of two Borgias at once." Luisa looked up from grinding herbs in the healing room, her eyes wide with the shock of Caterina's statement. Caterina saw Luisa’s look. "All right, it was an awful thing to say." She crossed herself. "I'll do extra praying with my rosary later."
“Turning the World to Stone” by Kelly Evans is the sort of novel that will linger in the mind of this reviewer as a compelling narrative of one woman’s struggle for power – and survival – during one of Italy’s most turbulent times. Evan’s narrative of Caterina’s life and times, and the personal and external challenges she faces is an utterly gripping read. Those particularly interested in the 15th century history of what is now a unified Italy will also appreciate the detail in the narrative.
*****
"Turning the World to Stone” by Kelly Evans receives 4 ½ stars from The Historical Fiction Company
To have your historical novel editorially reviewed and/or enter the HFC Book of the Year contest, please visit www.thehistoricalfictioncompany.com/book-awards/award-submission
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