A review by beefstevens
The Family by Carol Gino, Mario Puzo
challenging
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This novel by Mario Puzo, author of The Godfather, is equal parts a compelling portrait of Pope Alexander VI (formerly Rodrigo Borgia) and equal parts a scandalous account of his political and religious machinations. With an aim to unify Italy's feudal states under papal rule, this Pope of historical disrepute believed God would ultimately forgive his many sins simply because, as Pope, he is infallible and divine. Historical fiction or based on longstanding gossip? Nevertheless, it has uncomfortable implications for this influential era in Western civilization.