The Justice of the Duke

Seven historical stories are linked by Cesare Borgia, Duke Valentino. Conspiracies, questions of loyalty and demands for revenge lead towards his court. Soldiers, courtiers and lovers seek protection or try to remain beyond his notice. Those certain that they have deceived everyone else may discover that their own behaviour has been carefully tested. Rafael Sabatini builds each intrigue around the difference between appearances and concealed calculation. A letter, a promise or an act of mercy acquires a new meaning when the truth emerges. The collection asks what justice becomes when the ruler passing judgment also has interests of his own, amid the rivalries of Renaissance Italy.