But she is stunned to discover that her glittering marriage is a sham, and she is to be given as a concubine to the ruthless, charismatic Cardinal Borgia: Spaniard, sensualist, candidate for Pope–and passionately in love with her. Vivacious Giulia Farnese has floor-length golden hair and the world at her feet: beauty, wealth, and a handsome young husband. The Borgia family begins its legendary rise, chronicled by an innocent girl who finds herself drawn into their dangerous web… A pope lies dying and the throne of God is left vacant, a prize awarded only to the most virtuous–or the most ruthless. The Holy City is drenched with blood and teeming with secrets. One powerful family holds a city, a faith, and a woman in its grasp–from the national bestselling author of “Daughters of Rome” and “Mistress of Rome.” Originally I was hoping that this story would be about Opal but not from Opal’s POV. It was too weird and a little distasteful, and I think unnecessary. But otherwise, I did not like being in Opal’s head at all.

Ronan and Adam has some good character moments I just like when they’re existing together. And there was a really intriguing part in the middle that I think will have big consequences for the Ronan trilogy. The last 10 or so pages were very good, very interesting, very Raven Boys-y. *Spoilers if you haven’t finished The Raven Cycle* An enchanting story from Maggie Stiefvater featuring Opal, Ronan, and Adam from her bestselling Raven Cycle, taking place after the events of The Raven King.

Maggie stiefvater opal