The Story

The book is Agostino's confession. From childhood, he was groomed for sainthood, kept apart from the world in a life of extreme devotion. He became a celebrity, a 'strolling saint' people traveled miles to see. But it was all a performance. He never had a choice. Everything changes when he's forced to leave his sheltered existence. Suddenly, he's navigating political schemes, experiencing real friendship, and feeling desire for the first time. The story follows his wild journey as he tries to reconcile the legend he was made into with the flawed, feeling man he discovers himself to be.

Why You Should Read It

Sabatini is a master of historical adventure, but here he does something quieter and more powerful. Agostino is one of the most fascinating characters I've read. His inner conflict is so real. You feel for him as he grapples with guilt, curiosity, and a desperate need to belong. The book asks tough questions: Can true goodness exist without experience? Is a virtue chosen freely more valuable than one forced upon you? It's not a dry philosophical debate, though. It's wrapped in sword fights, romance, and the vivid, dangerous beauty of the Italian Renaissance.

Final Verdict

If you love historical fiction that's heavy on character and ideas, this is your next great read. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys a story about a person rebuilding themselves from the ground up. You don't need to be a history expert—Sabatini makes the era come alive. Just come ready for a smart, soulful, and surprisingly exciting story about a man finding his humanity after a lifetime of playing a god.