In The Name Of The Family

Sarah Dunant, Virago, £16.99

Set in the Italy of the 1500s, Dunant’s book focuses on the Borgia family and Pope Alexander – its venal and corrupt head – who ruthlessly promotes the interests of his illegitimate children.

Dunant takes the dramatic historical ledger and blends great narrative with the main actors in this period to create an immersive read of Renaissance Italy.

OUR VERDICT 8/10