Longlisted for the 2025 McIlvanney Prize

I was privileged to have an early read of this. It’s brilliant - Sir Ian Rankin

An absolutely astounding book. I found myself holding my breath waiting to see what would happen! - Joanne Wallace

A swashbuckling masterpiece, laced with intrigue, treachery and unexpected tenderness - Orlando Murrin

Memorable characters, deliciously devious plotting and plenty of wit - Crime Time FM: The Review Show

Venice. Winter, 1539.

When Cesare Aldo learns of a conspiracy to assassinate Duke Cosimo de’ Medici, he is hired to protect the ruler of Florence. With his life if necessary. The deadly attack which follows leads to bodies, bloodshed – and something far more dangerous.

Those behind the plot obtain a journal of the duke’s which contains explosive secrets that – in the wrong hands – could destroy all of Florence. Aldo must hunt down those responsible and reclaim the journal, or face banishment from the city and everyone he loves.

The trail leads him towards the one place Aldo has sworn to never return, a city of masks and lies where he has no allies and far too many enemies: Venice.

The fate of a dynasty rests on his shoulders, if he can make it out alive . . .