Caressa

by Linda Lang Bartell and Cleo Qian

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0451401816
• ISBN13: 9780451401816
• Release Date: April 1990
• Publisher: New American Library
• Length: 463 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Entertaining read by underrated author

I first read this book 12 years ago after picking it up in a used bookstore. Being unfamiliar with the author Linda Lang Bartell, I was pleasantly surprised by the fairytale romance and historical background in her writing. Worthy of repeat reading! Despite strong historical tone and hefty size, the book is never tedious or boring. Set in 15th century Florence during the glorious Medici era, Dante d'Alessandro or "The Lion" is a prince famed for his leadership and war prowess who undergoes a drastic personality change after a battle injury. To his clan's horror, he develops a strong distaste for war and retreats from his official duties. He now spends his time carousing at the court of Lorenzo de Medici and generally plays the buffoon. Caressa Chiari Ruggiero is a beautiful young widow whose family, the Chiaris, are at political loggerheads with the d'Alessandro clan. To resolve their enmity, Dante d'Alessandro proposes marriage to Caressa whose family reluctantly agrees. Locked in a political marriage and initially disappointed by her new husband's lack of responsibility, Caressa gradually grows fond of the playful rogue prince Dante. But that's not the end of the story. This book is filled with political intrigue and several plots to keep you turning the pages. Against the backdrop of the Pazzi conspiracy which threatens to overthrow Medici rule, all are not what they seem. The hero and heroine must overcome their distrust of each other, fall in love and work together to resolve the crisis. The tension and chemistry between Dante and Caressa sizzles. As they slowly find love, their scenes become loving and tender. Ms. Bartell is detailed and fleshes out her characters well. There are plenty of supporting characters, including Lorenzo de Medici and his brother Giuliano de Medici, who are well-characterized and lively. As the book was published in 1990, it's impossible to find new editions anymore. Try used bookstores, which in my opinion, will make this book an even better bargain. Highly recommended for romance fans who also enjoy real history!