Wife, mother, leader, warrior. Caterina Riario Sforza was one of the most prominent women in Renaissance Italy--and one of the most vilified. In this glittering biography, Elizabeth Lev reexamines her extraordinary life and accomplishments. Raised in the court of Milan and wed at age ten to the pope's corrupt nephew, Caterina was ensnared in Italy's political intrigues early in life. After turbulent years in Rome's papal court, she moved to the Romagnol province of Forlì. Following her husband's assassination, she ruled Italy's crossroads with iron will, martial strength, political savvy--and an icon's fashion sense. In finally losing her lands to the Borgia family, she put up a resistance that inspired all of Europe and set the stage for her progeny--including Cosimo de' Medici--to follow her example to greatness.--From publisher description.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Prologue : Christmas cannons The education of an Amazon Childhood's end The countess-in-waiting Triumphal parade to Rome Courtiers and conspiracies The growth of the Riario dynasty The fairest in the realm The birth of Athena The lean years Taking center stage

The retort at Ravaldino The spoils of war Fanning the flames Blinded by love Avenging fury Intrigue and invasion Italy's idol The long night of Castel Sant'Angelo Sleep after toil Epilogue : Mantua, 1526.