The Life of Caterina Sforza Part One
A powerful historical fiction novel about Caterina Sforza, Renaissance noblewoman, navigating betrayal, intrigue, and survival in Italy.
Caterina Sforza is often remembered as the fierce “Tiger of Forlì,” but history has reduced her to myth and legend (and video game) rather than recognizing her achievements as a ruler.
Turning the World to Stone Part One tells the story of the early life of one of Renaissance Italy’s most formidable women, Caterina Sforza, as she navigates political intrigue, betrayal, and violence.
Behind the legend Caterina was a real woman whose courage and determination helped her to survive in a world dominated by powerful men.
“Could I write all, the world would turn to stone.”
Excerpt
Chapter One: 1472
“No. It’s too much. I won’t allow it.” The voice paused. “It’s unnatural.” The last two words were a whisper, and Caterina, hidden under the table, strained to hear.
“He’s a powerful man, and the union is important for Milan.” Caterina heard the irritation in her father’s voice and wished she could somehow leave the room unnoticed. But she’d chased a ball under the table just as the duke and the others had arrived, and, knowing she wasn’t meant to be in the study, Caterina had frozen.
Galeazzo Sforza continued. “You know of our difficulties with the papal states. This union would protect us from any unwanted attention from Rome and guarantee added protection against the French.”
“Important for Milan but at the expense of my daughter.” The woman looked around the room at each of the men. “And the expense of our mortal souls.”
“He’s the Pope’s nephew. He’ll see to our souls.” Galeazzo waved away the objection.
“You saw the way he looked at her last night. A thirty-year-old man lusting after an eleven-year-old girl. And only a year older than your own daughter.”
Caterina knew she was being spoken of and held her breath to avoid detection.
Constanza’s husband, and one of the duke’s loyal retainers, tried to calm his wife. “My dear, it’s not like that. You imagined it, he was probably admiring the fine feast Sforza had prepared for us,” he offered weakly.
“I can’t.” Constanza stood firm, her chin tilted upward in defiance. “I won’t. There are many things I’ve done for Milan and my family, it’s the painful duty of all women to suffer for their children but there are limits to the things a mother will sacrifice. And this is one of them.”
From her position under the cloth-covered table, Caterina could see her father’s feet pacing. For moments the only noise in the room was the crackling of the fire and her own heartbeat. A log shifted position, sending tendrils of sparks upward, making Caterina jump. Still, no one heard her.
Finally, Constanza’s husband spoke. “I think —”
He was interrupted by Galeazzo. “I won’t have this damage our friendship. You’re one of my best generals however we need that papal partnership.” He nodded; a decision made. “I’ll offer my own daughter, Caterina.”
“But she’s only ten,” Constanza whispered. “You’re her father…” her voice trailed away.
“I am. And I know what’s best for my family. Caterina will marry Girolamo Riario.”
Read Her Incredible Story: https://books2read.com/u/3RRYMY
Copyright K Evans
Kelly Evans - Author 
Dear Ms Evans,
I greatly enjoyed Turning the World to Stone: Caterina Sforza Volume 1. My only disappointment was when I learned it had been published so recently that Volume 2 is not available yet. I’ll have to read some of your other titles in the meantime. Thank you. Christopher R.
Thank you for your kind comments. I can confirm that part two will be out around Spring 2024! You’re the first person I’ve told!
Hi Christopher,
Because you were so great when you contacted me in December, I’d like to offer you the chance of being one of my beta readers for Caterina part two. I would send you an advance copy and, once read, get your feedback on what worked/didn’t. I’ll be finished at the end of this month and the manuscript will go through a few rounds of editing, after that I’ll be looking for beta readers.
Let me know what you think,
Kelly
I just finished this book after plowing through your entire book list. And im dying for part 2!! I read this one in just under 4 hours. Any update on the release???
I just announced today that part two of Caterina’s life will be out this summer! And thank you SO much for getting in touch, it’s really appreciated!
Oh, and because you were so fantastically nice, I’ll share a secret: my next book after Caterina’s story has been told will take me to Tudor Scotland and involve a scandal! 😛
Hi! (Sorry, I don’t know your name)
Because you were so great when you contacted me earlier this year, I’d like to offer you the chance of being one of my beta readers for Caterina part two. I would send you an advance copy and, once read, get your feedback on what worked/didn’t. I’ll be finished at the end of this month and the manuscript will go through a few rounds of editing, after that I’ll be looking for beta readers.
Let me know what you think,
Kelly