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The Assassin of Venice
A Renaissance courtesan must choose between love and duty in this high stakes 16th-century mystery, perfect for fans of Madeline Hunter and Rhys Bowen.
Valentina Riccardi is many things: beautiful, cultured, deadly. As one of Venice’s famous courtesans, she’s perfectly positioned to seduce powerful men, get them alone, and assassinate them. Spies. Traitors. Who they are doesn’t matter—only that they made an enemy of the Council of Ten, the shadowy and seemingly omniscient power from which Valentina takes her orders without question.
Venice is her home, and after losing everything once before to an invading army, there is nothing she won’t do to protect her city, for there is nothing she loves more.
Almost nothing.
She vowed to never fall in love again, but Valentina can’t help but give her heart to Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. But when Bastiano starts asking the wrong questions, Valentina receives a new assignment: kill him.
Yet the more Valentina learns about the Council of Ten, the more she wonders if they are truly acting in the interest of the Venetian state, or using her for their own dark ambitions. If Valentina is to save Bastiano, she must untangle their conspiracy—with the help of her fellow courtesans—before it’s too late.
The Assassin of Venice is a captivating, sensual, high stakes read that brings 16th-century Venice to life, and draws on the fascinating real history of both Venetian cortigiane oneste—“honest courtesans”—and Renaissance Venice’s sprawling intelligence service.
Valentina Riccardi is many things: beautiful, cultured, deadly. As one of Venice’s famous courtesans, she’s perfectly positioned to seduce powerful men, get them alone, and assassinate them. Spies. Traitors. Who they are doesn’t matter—only that they made an enemy of the Council of Ten, the shadowy and seemingly omniscient power from which Valentina takes her orders without question.
Venice is her home, and after losing everything once before to an invading army, there is nothing she won’t do to protect her city, for there is nothing she loves more.
Almost nothing.
She vowed to never fall in love again, but Valentina can’t help but give her heart to Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. But when Bastiano starts asking the wrong questions, Valentina receives a new assignment: kill him.
Yet the more Valentina learns about the Council of Ten, the more she wonders if they are truly acting in the interest of the Venetian state, or using her for their own dark ambitions. If Valentina is to save Bastiano, she must untangle their conspiracy—with the help of her fellow courtesans—before it’s too late.
The Assassin of Venice is a captivating, sensual, high stakes read that brings 16th-century Venice to life, and draws on the fascinating real history of both Venetian cortigiane oneste—“honest courtesans”—and Renaissance Venice’s sprawling intelligence service.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published June 18, 2024
About the author
Alyssa Palombo
5 books455 followersMy name is Alyssa Palombo, and I am a writer living and working in Buffalo, NY. I attended Canisius College in Buffalo, where I majored in English and creative writing with a minor in music. I’m a classically trained mezzo-soprano who also dabbles in playing piano. When not writing, I can usually be found reading, hanging out and laughing way too hard at nonsensical inside jokes with friends, traveling (or dreaming of my next travel destination), at a concert, or planning for next Halloween. I’m a metalhead and a self-proclaimed French fry connoisseur. I also own way too many hoodies, pairs of sunglasses, and pajamas, but never enough books.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
June 16, 2024
Valentina Riccardi may be one of Venice’s most famous courtesans, but she’s also deadly. Having lost everything to an invading army, she’s got nothing to lose, so when she’s approached with a plot to seduce powerful men and assassinate them, she agrees. All in a day’s work, right?! In her eyes, anyone who is a enemy of the Council of Ten is an enemy of hers…almost anyone.
When Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin and love interest, appears on her kill list, Valentina needs to rely on her fellow ‘cortigiane oneste’ to reduce the power of the governing body of Venice. Can she rely on her network? Will she be forced to make a choice? What about her safety and that of her beloved Bastiano?
I came for the cover, but stayed for the author’s ability to bring 16th-century Venice to life! Her examination of the honest courtesans and the intelligence gathering in Venice was spectacular. I was riveted with this exploration of the clandestine extracurricular activities of a Venetian courtesan. Renaissance Venice was rife with political tension and this paranoid political climate was the perfect backdrop for a perfectly placed woman to covertly collect and coax information from influential clients. I’m always in awe of Palombo’s historical fiction and although this one was a little darker, bloodier and sexier than I was expecting, it was a riveting read into the ‘what if’ and featured fabulous twists.
Congratulations on a spectacular cover, Lynn Andreozzi. I was initially drawn to a cover with a front view of a character - so rare now in cover design! When I read the book and went back to the cover, I could see the dagger, the stance and stare, and the ‘V’ for Valentina on her bodice!
Trigger warnings: murder/violent death, war-related violence, death of parents, death of loved ones, brief mentions of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault.
I was gifted this copy by Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
When Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin and love interest, appears on her kill list, Valentina needs to rely on her fellow ‘cortigiane oneste’ to reduce the power of the governing body of Venice. Can she rely on her network? Will she be forced to make a choice? What about her safety and that of her beloved Bastiano?
I came for the cover, but stayed for the author’s ability to bring 16th-century Venice to life! Her examination of the honest courtesans and the intelligence gathering in Venice was spectacular. I was riveted with this exploration of the clandestine extracurricular activities of a Venetian courtesan. Renaissance Venice was rife with political tension and this paranoid political climate was the perfect backdrop for a perfectly placed woman to covertly collect and coax information from influential clients. I’m always in awe of Palombo’s historical fiction and although this one was a little darker, bloodier and sexier than I was expecting, it was a riveting read into the ‘what if’ and featured fabulous twists.
Congratulations on a spectacular cover, Lynn Andreozzi. I was initially drawn to a cover with a front view of a character - so rare now in cover design! When I read the book and went back to the cover, I could see the dagger, the stance and stare, and the ‘V’ for Valentina on her bodice!
Trigger warnings: murder/violent death, war-related violence, death of parents, death of loved ones, brief mentions of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault.
I was gifted this copy by Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 1, 2024
Narrated by Nicol Zanzarella
Presented by Dreamscape Media
Exceptional!
This was such great fun!
Valentina is a courtesan, but also happens to be an assassin. She loves what she does and she's good at it, too. But her next assignment leaves her questioning everything.
Man, I was HOOKED! The narrator drew me straight in, had me onside with Valentina and Bastiano instantly, and listening to things unfold was so entertaining.
Valentina is a fantastic leading lady - she's confident without being arrogant, and she's competent. She enjoys what she does and feels no shame, and she creates meaningful connections - it's not all about seduction and manipulation (though there's plenty of that, too). She's easy to root for, and the narrator did such a fantastic job of bringing her to life.
The story is full of intrigue, with plenty to keep you hanging on. Her life as a courtesan is interesting enough, before adding in everything else! There's never a dull moment and the characters do well to hold the story strong.
The Venetian setting is delightful and well crafted, and the historical aspect adds a real romanticism to everything. I loved the time I spent in this world - it was truly fascinating.
Absolute props to the narrator - was not bored for a second. She brought the characters to life, distinguished everyone so well, while somehow conveying the different levels of wealth through voice alone. Masterfully performed and I would happily listen to this narrator any day.
Immensely enjoyed this one, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more from this author AND narrator.
With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC
Presented by Dreamscape Media
Exceptional!
This was such great fun!
Valentina is a courtesan, but also happens to be an assassin. She loves what she does and she's good at it, too. But her next assignment leaves her questioning everything.
Man, I was HOOKED! The narrator drew me straight in, had me onside with Valentina and Bastiano instantly, and listening to things unfold was so entertaining.
Valentina is a fantastic leading lady - she's confident without being arrogant, and she's competent. She enjoys what she does and feels no shame, and she creates meaningful connections - it's not all about seduction and manipulation (though there's plenty of that, too). She's easy to root for, and the narrator did such a fantastic job of bringing her to life.
The story is full of intrigue, with plenty to keep you hanging on. Her life as a courtesan is interesting enough, before adding in everything else! There's never a dull moment and the characters do well to hold the story strong.
The Venetian setting is delightful and well crafted, and the historical aspect adds a real romanticism to everything. I loved the time I spent in this world - it was truly fascinating.
Absolute props to the narrator - was not bored for a second. She brought the characters to life, distinguished everyone so well, while somehow conveying the different levels of wealth through voice alone. Masterfully performed and I would happily listen to this narrator any day.
Immensely enjoyed this one, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more from this author AND narrator.
With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC
March 15, 2024
Luscious, luscious, luscious. I held my breath for the entirety of this gorgeous and thrilling book.
July 24, 2024
A solid fun summer read. I enjoyed it but can’t say I was dying to flip the pages. But, don't get me wrong, it was a lot of fun and the backdrop of Venice was awesome! I have never read a historical romance/mystery like this. I would reach for one of her books again for sure.
June 18, 2024
A seductive, dark, and romantic mystery read filled with murder and secrets set in 16th century Venice, what more could you really want?
Binged this in a day and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to whatever this author does next.
Tysm Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
Binged this in a day and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to whatever this author does next.
Tysm Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
June 27, 2024
3.5 stars
I love when books are set in Venice because it’s one of my favorite European cities. In The Assassin of Venice, the author does a great job of richly capturing its historical details. We follow Valentina who is both a courtesan and an assassin. Both of these trades help her navigate the complex political landscape of Venice. As the story unfolds, she starts to question where her orders are coming from and the motives behind the targets she's given. The explanations she is being given just aren’t adding up.
I enjoyed the romance between Valentina and Bastiano and seeing glimpses of her relationships with her clients. However, this was quite a predictable read with no major surprises. The characters are a bit flat but the story was engaging enough that I could look past that. Overall, I did enjoy the book but it was nothing amazing.
I love when books are set in Venice because it’s one of my favorite European cities. In The Assassin of Venice, the author does a great job of richly capturing its historical details. We follow Valentina who is both a courtesan and an assassin. Both of these trades help her navigate the complex political landscape of Venice. As the story unfolds, she starts to question where her orders are coming from and the motives behind the targets she's given. The explanations she is being given just aren’t adding up.
I enjoyed the romance between Valentina and Bastiano and seeing glimpses of her relationships with her clients. However, this was quite a predictable read with no major surprises. The characters are a bit flat but the story was engaging enough that I could look past that. Overall, I did enjoy the book but it was nothing amazing.
February 1, 2024
I love this book. Valentina is a force to be reckoned with. A true bad ass! I love how she was able to get into the politics of venice in a very entertaining way.
July 7, 2024
"Had this been any other time, had there been less at stake, I would have commented acidly on the fact that men seemed low on creativity when it came to insulting women. "Bitch" and "whore" were all they were ever able to come up with, and as I cheerfully acknowledged being both, it was rather less than insulting". **mic drop**
This was such a cool historical fiction read. I loved how badass the lead character was, and I enjoyed the story. I loved the feminist take and it was just so interesting. There was so much at stake and I really didn't know how this book was going to end. Also, the narrator was amazing for this book. I could seriously listen to her read me my grocery list.
Thank you Netgalley for sharing a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
This was such a cool historical fiction read. I loved how badass the lead character was, and I enjoyed the story. I loved the feminist take and it was just so interesting. There was so much at stake and I really didn't know how this book was going to end. Also, the narrator was amazing for this book. I could seriously listen to her read me my grocery list.
Thank you Netgalley for sharing a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
March 1, 2024
Rating: ★★★★½
Rounded to five stars.
From the outset, the premise of this book had me hooked, and it didn't disappoint.
The prose exudes sultriness and satisfaction. Not much else to say - the language was complex, perfectly suited to the genre of historical fiction, and it made the read that much more enjoyable. In The Assassin of Venice, we also find a strong female protagonist in Valentina Riccardi - while she was savage, determined, resourceful, and extremely intelligent, she never shied away from vulnerability and showing love to the people in her life who deserved it. She stole my heart, completely and utterly. I see in her a concrete resilience I have not seen since Jude Duarte. The ensemble cast of characters is equally captivating - Ambrogio, Bastiano, and Amalia were amongst my favorites, though Valentina is unquestionably the character I adore the most.
Another thing I enjoyed about this story is its social commentary and parallels it draws. The political intrigue is masterfully woven into the narrative, adding layers upon layers of complexity and depth that call for further reflection. I also appreciated the candid exploration of Valentina's profession, and how it avoided romanticizing or glorifying the work that she did, instead shedding light on all the realities that she encountered.
The seamless integration of before and after chapters felt organic and essential to the plot's progression also.
Most of the relationship dynamics are beautifully crafted, adding richness to the narrative. Valentina's relationships with Ambrogio and Amalia were my favorites to read about, but every single dynamic does the characters justice. The romantic relationship portrayed between Valentina and Bastiano has both a palpable chemistry and a tenderness that tugs at the heartstrings. You cannot help but to root for them.
While the ending felt slightly abrupt, I must say I wished for extended scenes to further develop certain relationships, this book is still one that will certainly stay with me. Nonetheless, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an enthralling tale filled with intrigue, passion, and unforgettable characters.
Rounded to five stars.
From the outset, the premise of this book had me hooked, and it didn't disappoint.
The prose exudes sultriness and satisfaction. Not much else to say - the language was complex, perfectly suited to the genre of historical fiction, and it made the read that much more enjoyable. In The Assassin of Venice, we also find a strong female protagonist in Valentina Riccardi - while she was savage, determined, resourceful, and extremely intelligent, she never shied away from vulnerability and showing love to the people in her life who deserved it. She stole my heart, completely and utterly. I see in her a concrete resilience I have not seen since Jude Duarte. The ensemble cast of characters is equally captivating - Ambrogio, Bastiano, and Amalia were amongst my favorites, though Valentina is unquestionably the character I adore the most.
Another thing I enjoyed about this story is its social commentary and parallels it draws. The political intrigue is masterfully woven into the narrative, adding layers upon layers of complexity and depth that call for further reflection. I also appreciated the candid exploration of Valentina's profession, and how it avoided romanticizing or glorifying the work that she did, instead shedding light on all the realities that she encountered.
The seamless integration of before and after chapters felt organic and essential to the plot's progression also.
Most of the relationship dynamics are beautifully crafted, adding richness to the narrative. Valentina's relationships with Ambrogio and Amalia were my favorites to read about, but every single dynamic does the characters justice. The romantic relationship portrayed between Valentina and Bastiano has both a palpable chemistry and a tenderness that tugs at the heartstrings. You cannot help but to root for them.
While the ending felt slightly abrupt, I must say I wished for extended scenes to further develop certain relationships, this book is still one that will certainly stay with me. Nonetheless, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an enthralling tale filled with intrigue, passion, and unforgettable characters.
June 12, 2024
Narrated by Nicol Zanzarella
Genre: historical fiction
Venice, 1538
Valentina is one of the famous courtesans of Venice. She collects secrets and works for the Council of Ten - a subset of the Venetian Senate responsible for protecting Venice from foreign influence - and does their bidding as an assassin. She's taken their orders without question, but the deathbed confession of one of her targets makes her wonder if her orders are as meaningful as she'd once thought.
I don't pick up as much historical fiction anymore (preferring my guaranteed HEA in a historical romance), but 1538 Venice caught my eye. I've long been a fan of the famous Venetian Courtesans (The Honest Courtesan, which was some of the research material for Palombo was a favorite nonfiction of mine 20ish years ago), and the political machinations of the powerful of Venice of the 16th century are uniquely situated for a plot like this.
While this isn’t a historical romance, it’s both romantic and open door. Valentina is a businesswoman first and foremost, and her trade is her body, but she’s unabashed in her experience of pleasure. The book is written from Valentina’s perspective, and Palombo gives her a strong narrative voice where it’s easy to see Valentina’s motivations and emotions. She distinguishes the intimate scenes where Valentina is with her lover Bastino and those with her clients showing Valentina’s emotional engagement, sometimes her affection and friendship, and sometimes her detachment through the physical intimacy.
For the historical romance reader - this is romantic but not a romance. That said, it has a satisfying ending, and I was pleased with the conflict resolution, which I thought might be nearly impossible to pull off. Palombo builds a gorgeous world of Renaissance Venice with a network of strong female friendships among courtesans and perhaps a love for which Valentina is willing to risk it all.
I picked this book up on a whim from NetGalley, and I’m really glad I did. Thank you to Dreamscape Media for the ALC for review. The Assassin of Venice is out 6/18/24.
Genre: historical fiction
Venice, 1538
Valentina is one of the famous courtesans of Venice. She collects secrets and works for the Council of Ten - a subset of the Venetian Senate responsible for protecting Venice from foreign influence - and does their bidding as an assassin. She's taken their orders without question, but the deathbed confession of one of her targets makes her wonder if her orders are as meaningful as she'd once thought.
I don't pick up as much historical fiction anymore (preferring my guaranteed HEA in a historical romance), but 1538 Venice caught my eye. I've long been a fan of the famous Venetian Courtesans (The Honest Courtesan, which was some of the research material for Palombo was a favorite nonfiction of mine 20ish years ago), and the political machinations of the powerful of Venice of the 16th century are uniquely situated for a plot like this.
While this isn’t a historical romance, it’s both romantic and open door. Valentina is a businesswoman first and foremost, and her trade is her body, but she’s unabashed in her experience of pleasure. The book is written from Valentina’s perspective, and Palombo gives her a strong narrative voice where it’s easy to see Valentina’s motivations and emotions. She distinguishes the intimate scenes where Valentina is with her lover Bastino and those with her clients showing Valentina’s emotional engagement, sometimes her affection and friendship, and sometimes her detachment through the physical intimacy.
For the historical romance reader - this is romantic but not a romance. That said, it has a satisfying ending, and I was pleased with the conflict resolution, which I thought might be nearly impossible to pull off. Palombo builds a gorgeous world of Renaissance Venice with a network of strong female friendships among courtesans and perhaps a love for which Valentina is willing to risk it all.
I picked this book up on a whim from NetGalley, and I’m really glad I did. Thank you to Dreamscape Media for the ALC for review. The Assassin of Venice is out 6/18/24.
June 18, 2024
A thrilling, delicious, and intriguing historical novel with a mixed touch of politics, burning intimacy, and blades and poisons.
I already had a feeling that I'm gonna enjoy this novel, and I did, which was gratifying for my part.
The writing is delicate in woving its storyline chapter by chapter. It didn't also miss making the characters even more compelling and striking, especially Valentina.
Valentina's character is seductive in the most part of the story. She utilised her talents and abilities in satisfying levels, leaving the readers impressed, me specifically.
Malaesta, character, I admit was an enigma. I really expected that much of him, considering how he's characterized and shown in chapters with Valentina. I could say the same with the Ten. I just hope that the story did show more of the Ten than presenting them by telling in the story.
The same goes for Bastiano. Although I find him interesting at the beginning, I couldn't quite root for him for another reason rather than being a lover and the beloved of Valentina. He lacks the presence in the story. The story didn't really delve that much on him despite the potential of his character in the storyline.
The story also made me feel nostalgic, which made me look back to the series The Borgias and The Medici. I could quite feel the same tone and atmosphere of it here in the novel.
The conclusion was�� I would say it was quite not I was expecting? I was expecting more from it, more of schemes and actions, perhaps.
Overall, this was still satisfying read. I enjoyed it a lot. Thank you, netgalley and the publisher, for the arc opportunity ♡
I already had a feeling that I'm gonna enjoy this novel, and I did, which was gratifying for my part.
The writing is delicate in woving its storyline chapter by chapter. It didn't also miss making the characters even more compelling and striking, especially Valentina.
Valentina's character is seductive in the most part of the story. She utilised her talents and abilities in satisfying levels, leaving the readers impressed, me specifically.
Malaesta, character, I admit was an enigma. I really expected that much of him, considering how he's characterized and shown in chapters with Valentina. I could say the same with the Ten. I just hope that the story did show more of the Ten than presenting them by telling in the story.
The same goes for Bastiano. Although I find him interesting at the beginning, I couldn't quite root for him for another reason rather than being a lover and the beloved of Valentina. He lacks the presence in the story. The story didn't really delve that much on him despite the potential of his character in the storyline.
The story also made me feel nostalgic, which made me look back to the series The Borgias and The Medici. I could quite feel the same tone and atmosphere of it here in the novel.
The conclusion was�� I would say it was quite not I was expecting? I was expecting more from it, more of schemes and actions, perhaps.
Overall, this was still satisfying read. I enjoyed it a lot. Thank you, netgalley and the publisher, for the arc opportunity ♡
June 26, 2024
Assassins, politicians, 16th century Venice, sex-workers… this book has it all!
Valentina is a respected, wealthy, polished courtesan in Venice with many high profile clients, making her perfectly positioned to function as a dangerous assassin for The Ten and protect Venice from ever falling again. The only things she has to lose are her lover, Bastiano, and their daughter. And when positioned to choose one or the other, Valentina takes matters into her own hands.
As a fan of historical fiction, this novel was a fun journey into the historical landscape of 15th century Venice, though I would’ve enjoyed more scene-setting and detailing the landscape to feel truly immersed in the time period. The author notes at the end speak a bit about where fact meets fiction, and it was very interesting - I think worth noting at the on set - that the courtesans as assassins is the fiction that could maybe have been true, and what a fun concept!
I enjoyed the narrator, though I found the pace for the audio to be too slow. Admittedly, I generally like a faster pace and will listen to audio books at 1.5-2.0 speed, but this book I listened to at 2.0-2.5 due to the pacing.
I received this audio ARC from Dreamscape Media and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Valentina is a respected, wealthy, polished courtesan in Venice with many high profile clients, making her perfectly positioned to function as a dangerous assassin for The Ten and protect Venice from ever falling again. The only things she has to lose are her lover, Bastiano, and their daughter. And when positioned to choose one or the other, Valentina takes matters into her own hands.
As a fan of historical fiction, this novel was a fun journey into the historical landscape of 15th century Venice, though I would’ve enjoyed more scene-setting and detailing the landscape to feel truly immersed in the time period. The author notes at the end speak a bit about where fact meets fiction, and it was very interesting - I think worth noting at the on set - that the courtesans as assassins is the fiction that could maybe have been true, and what a fun concept!
I enjoyed the narrator, though I found the pace for the audio to be too slow. Admittedly, I generally like a faster pace and will listen to audio books at 1.5-2.0 speed, but this book I listened to at 2.0-2.5 due to the pacing.
I received this audio ARC from Dreamscape Media and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2024
Rarely do I find myself allied with a main character deplete of morals but this is so well written, I root for her to win often and found myself in for a wild ride. Loved every minute of it. The story was quite sufficiently told in description by the author to pique my interest so I shall not re summarize here. Just know I highly recommend this audiobook by this narrator with her accent makes this endearing , so perfect. Pick this one up for your summer read. It is intense!m. Special thanks to the following for allowing me to give a listen with giving my own honest opinions.
#NetGalley
#DreamscapeMedia
#AlyssaPalombo
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
#NetGalley
#DreamscapeMedia
#AlyssaPalombo
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
August 23, 2024
"Your mask may hide your face, and your cloak your figure, but neither hides your eyes. And your eyes are full of fire, a fire that drew me in as soon as I saw you. It is a fire I find I must warm myself by or perish of the cold."
- time skips to past and present, past that's not too interesting minus the chapter with the quote above
- yay feminism and killing evil men
- wished it was a bit longer or that the romance was a bit longer
- time skips to past and present, past that's not too interesting minus the chapter with the quote above
- yay feminism and killing evil men
- wished it was a bit longer or that the romance was a bit longer
July 29, 2024
One of the things I love about Alyssa’s stories (especially the ones set in Italy) is that I get to experience the country in the story (until I actually get to go there.) The research and details she incorporates make it so easy to imagine walking through Venice. I also love that it’s like a history lesson but with a whole lot of drama thrown in!
June 24, 2024
What a sexy, thrilling, murdery, binge-worthy read! I only wish it were longer so I could have spent more time in this rich and secretive world. Can someone please make this a movie!?
December 30, 2023
Review TK!
July 8, 2024
3.5/ 5
In The Assassin of Venice, Valentina Riccardi is a courtesan in Renaissance Venice who also works as a spy and assassin for the Venetian Council of Ten. Valentina is determined to protect Venice and ensure her daughter's future, but her loyalty is tested when she is ordered to kill the man she loves. With the help of her fellow courtesans, Valentina must uncover the truth and save her loved ones before it's too late.
In The Assassin of Venice, Valentina Riccardi is a courtesan in Renaissance Venice who also works as a spy and assassin for the Venetian Council of Ten. Valentina is determined to protect Venice and ensure her daughter's future, but her loyalty is tested when she is ordered to kill the man she loves. With the help of her fellow courtesans, Valentina must uncover the truth and save her loved ones before it's too late.
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March 31, 20244 stars ★★★★
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
This was a very quick and engaging read with an intriguing plot, some romance and a compelling main character. I love nothing more than strong and complex female characters so by default Valentina has become one of my favourites <3
Will definitely recommend to my fellow historical/mystery reader friends!
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
This was a very quick and engaging read with an intriguing plot, some romance and a compelling main character. I love nothing more than strong and complex female characters so by default Valentina has become one of my favourites <3
Will definitely recommend to my fellow historical/mystery reader friends!
August 5, 2024
Alyssa Palombo has a way of making the settings of her novels jump off the page, and The Assassin of Venice is no exception. You'll feel like you're right there in 16th century Venice as you read, which make this dramatic, seductive thriller all the more fun. The beautiful and dangerous Valentina won me over immediately, and the exploration of the era's politics and social mores was entertaining as well. And of course, as with any good thriller, there are some big surprises along the way. I definitely recommend this one for historical fiction lovers, especially those interested in the Italian Renaissance. Enjoy!
June 17, 2024
The Assassin of Venice is the first book I've read by Alyssa Palombo. It's a historical mystery set in 1538 Venice. Usually I'm not particularly fond of books set in the Renaissance period, so color me surprised that I practically flew through this story. I suppose when the setting is the Renaissance, I can love the story when it involves courtesans, sex, love, violence and intrigue; it's actually right up my alley!
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice's famous courtesans in 1538. She's beautiful, charming and well-read. But unknown to most people, she's also a deadly assassin. Valentina receives her orders from the Council of Ten, a shadowy group who rules Venice. She loves her adoptive city, especially after losing all she held dear many years ago, so she follows her instructions without question. That is, until one assassination order makes her wonder if it is the wish of the Ten, or if one of the Ten has his own interests in mind. Valentina vows she will never love again, but yet she's fallen in love with Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. When Bastiano begins asking the wrong questions about a death, Valentina receives her next assignment: kill Bastiano. Will she be forced to kill the man she loves, or will her fellow cortigiane oneste - "honest courtesans" - be able to help her get to the heart of the conspiracy in time?
This may be the first historical mystery set in the Renaissance period that I've read. I expected an interesting story from the synopsis, but I was unprepared for the excitement and thrills I encountered. I ended up reading the majority of the story in a day; I was so happy I didn't have to leave the house today! At first I didn't know if I would care for Valentina Riccardi. She was a courtesan with many lovers, and had no compunction about being ordered to assassinate someone. She wasn't particularly warm and fuzzy. But something changed for me when I read the "Interludes" scattered throughout the book. I learned of the horrible loss in her past, and why she was willing to do all she could to keep Venice, the city that she loved, safe (including the assassination of those that threatened it). She had very close friendships with many of her fellow courtesans, especially Amalia. That Valentina had such a loving relationship with Bastiano surprised me at first. He wasn't a customer, just a man who loved her. How could that work out? It was a whole other world then, wasn't it? Bastiano was charming, funny, and apparently a man secure enough in his masculinity not to feel threatened by her paying customers. I loved their time together. They had a daughter, Ginevra, who lived with a loving couple that kept her safe and happy when her parents resided in Venice. Valentina had no trouble assassinating someone who threatened her beloved Venice; however, she began to doubt herself when it appeared her latest mission wasn't ordered by the Counsel of Ten, but rather by an individual more interested in his own lofty goals than that of Venice. When Bastiano was sent on a fact-finding mission by his father about possible treason in Venice, it was then Valentina was ordered to kill the man she loved. She refused, but the villain threatened the life of little Ginevra. I will not give away the rest of the story; I don't want to ruin the heartache, danger and excitement for you. I'm sure you will be sitting on the edge of your seat while you hold your breath like I was! I hope to read more historical mysteries by this talented author.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice's famous courtesans in 1538. She's beautiful, charming and well-read. But unknown to most people, she's also a deadly assassin. Valentina receives her orders from the Council of Ten, a shadowy group who rules Venice. She loves her adoptive city, especially after losing all she held dear many years ago, so she follows her instructions without question. That is, until one assassination order makes her wonder if it is the wish of the Ten, or if one of the Ten has his own interests in mind. Valentina vows she will never love again, but yet she's fallen in love with Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. When Bastiano begins asking the wrong questions about a death, Valentina receives her next assignment: kill Bastiano. Will she be forced to kill the man she loves, or will her fellow cortigiane oneste - "honest courtesans" - be able to help her get to the heart of the conspiracy in time?
This may be the first historical mystery set in the Renaissance period that I've read. I expected an interesting story from the synopsis, but I was unprepared for the excitement and thrills I encountered. I ended up reading the majority of the story in a day; I was so happy I didn't have to leave the house today! At first I didn't know if I would care for Valentina Riccardi. She was a courtesan with many lovers, and had no compunction about being ordered to assassinate someone. She wasn't particularly warm and fuzzy. But something changed for me when I read the "Interludes" scattered throughout the book. I learned of the horrible loss in her past, and why she was willing to do all she could to keep Venice, the city that she loved, safe (including the assassination of those that threatened it). She had very close friendships with many of her fellow courtesans, especially Amalia. That Valentina had such a loving relationship with Bastiano surprised me at first. He wasn't a customer, just a man who loved her. How could that work out? It was a whole other world then, wasn't it? Bastiano was charming, funny, and apparently a man secure enough in his masculinity not to feel threatened by her paying customers. I loved their time together. They had a daughter, Ginevra, who lived with a loving couple that kept her safe and happy when her parents resided in Venice. Valentina had no trouble assassinating someone who threatened her beloved Venice; however, she began to doubt herself when it appeared her latest mission wasn't ordered by the Counsel of Ten, but rather by an individual more interested in his own lofty goals than that of Venice. When Bastiano was sent on a fact-finding mission by his father about possible treason in Venice, it was then Valentina was ordered to kill the man she loved. She refused, but the villain threatened the life of little Ginevra. I will not give away the rest of the story; I don't want to ruin the heartache, danger and excitement for you. I'm sure you will be sitting on the edge of your seat while you hold your breath like I was! I hope to read more historical mysteries by this talented author.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
June 26, 2024
The year is 1538, and Valentina is a well-known courtesan in Venice… with a secret side hustle as an assassin. After tragedy struck 11 years prior, she’s made Venice her home and is both skilled at seduction and reliable in accomplishing her deadly assignments. The Council of Ten—a secretive and powerful set of rulers—seem to know all, and Valentina’s only job is to obey their assassination orders. As a woman in her profession, she has the kind of access and position that makes her an asset to the Council of Ten. But when they order her to kill her lover, Bastiano—the father of her young daughter—they’ve gone too far. Valentina must find a way out of this mess, even if it means eliminating one of the most powerful men in Venice.
From the very beginning, The Assassin of Venice is easy to fall into. I love the way the backdrop of 1538 Venice is drawn, from its canals to its political powers to the courtesans who make a good living there. Valentina is a formidable woman herself, both courtesan and deadly assassin. But she’s not completely ruthless or without moral compass; she does what she has to do, and justifies her killings as eliminating bad men… and also keeping herself (and her daughter) safe. Valentina is loving to Bastiano and their child, she’s a loyal friend, and she’s determined to do what is right, however it may look to others.
It’s not often I read about courtesans or assassins, let alone both in one book, and it was fun to get into these characters and this shadowy world. Much of the first half of the novel sets the stage, showing Valentina in action, but also making her doubt a recent kill for the first time. Was the man actually innocent? And if so, what does that mean for her and her assignments? But when she’s ordered to kill her lover Bastiano, things escalate even more. How can she uncover a powerful man’s secrets in order to save the lives of the two people who matter the most to her? What is she willing to do to save her daughter?
The Assassin of Venice is action-packed and smart, and it puts our characters into seemingly impossible circumstances. But I love how cunning Valentina is, her friendship with a fellow courtesan, and the strength she shows throughout the novel. I also enjoyed the glimpses into her past in 1527, when she went by a different name and experienced a life-changing loss, and how it comes back around in the end. As much as I love these characters, I wouldn’t hesitate to read more books set in this world.
Audiobook
Nicol Zanzarella is an excellent narrator for The Assassin of Venice. She breathes life into Valentina, capturing her strength and courage well. She also speaks with the kind of Italian accent that, for me, made the audiobook much more immersive. It felt like I was whisked back in time to 16th century Italy, making the story that much more vivid.
The Assassin of Venice is an utterly captivating novel. It has historical details, emotionally compelling trials, strong characters, and a fast pace that keeps it engaging throughout. I loved getting to know these characters and seeing them navigate difficult choices. This is the kind of novel I need to read more of! Though this is only my first time reading Alyssa Palombo, I have all of her other books high on my TBR, so look out for more reviews of her work.
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
* Please read my full review on my blog, Amanda's Book Corner! *
From the very beginning, The Assassin of Venice is easy to fall into. I love the way the backdrop of 1538 Venice is drawn, from its canals to its political powers to the courtesans who make a good living there. Valentina is a formidable woman herself, both courtesan and deadly assassin. But she’s not completely ruthless or without moral compass; she does what she has to do, and justifies her killings as eliminating bad men… and also keeping herself (and her daughter) safe. Valentina is loving to Bastiano and their child, she’s a loyal friend, and she’s determined to do what is right, however it may look to others.
It’s not often I read about courtesans or assassins, let alone both in one book, and it was fun to get into these characters and this shadowy world. Much of the first half of the novel sets the stage, showing Valentina in action, but also making her doubt a recent kill for the first time. Was the man actually innocent? And if so, what does that mean for her and her assignments? But when she’s ordered to kill her lover Bastiano, things escalate even more. How can she uncover a powerful man’s secrets in order to save the lives of the two people who matter the most to her? What is she willing to do to save her daughter?
The Assassin of Venice is action-packed and smart, and it puts our characters into seemingly impossible circumstances. But I love how cunning Valentina is, her friendship with a fellow courtesan, and the strength she shows throughout the novel. I also enjoyed the glimpses into her past in 1527, when she went by a different name and experienced a life-changing loss, and how it comes back around in the end. As much as I love these characters, I wouldn’t hesitate to read more books set in this world.
Audiobook
Nicol Zanzarella is an excellent narrator for The Assassin of Venice. She breathes life into Valentina, capturing her strength and courage well. She also speaks with the kind of Italian accent that, for me, made the audiobook much more immersive. It felt like I was whisked back in time to 16th century Italy, making the story that much more vivid.
The Assassin of Venice is an utterly captivating novel. It has historical details, emotionally compelling trials, strong characters, and a fast pace that keeps it engaging throughout. I loved getting to know these characters and seeing them navigate difficult choices. This is the kind of novel I need to read more of! Though this is only my first time reading Alyssa Palombo, I have all of her other books high on my TBR, so look out for more reviews of her work.
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
* Please read my full review on my blog, Amanda's Book Corner! *
June 15, 2024
Real Rating: 3.5 / 5 Stars
I confess I’m obsessed with Veronica Franco, Lucrezia Borgia, and Giulia Tofana. All three of these women were incredible examples of “don’t judge a book by its cover”. The Assassin of Venice takes place roughly a couple of decades after Lurezia’s lifetime, during Veronica’s, but around a century before Giulia’s. Do I really just like Renaissance women and the idea of them making any combination of sex, intellect, power, and/or violence work in their favor? Why yes, yes I do. Am I under an assumption that all the stories are true? No, no I’m not. Let a girl dream.
Alyssa Palombo takes us readers back to the early half of 16th-century Venice, where Honest Courtesans ply their trade and the Council of Ten watch over the city-state to keep it free of any and all outside influence. Venice was a vitally important port city to Italy during the Renaissance and the military security of the country, the Adriatic Sea, and a chunk of the Mediterranean depended on the Italians due to the threat of the Ottoman Empire from the East. Italy was insular and paranoid, with good reason. Political intrigue and the trading of secrets was a national sport.
The plot of The Assassin of Venice is a good one, romantic and dramatic with an almost-cinematic feel to it. It would make a good movie. That doesn’t necessarily mean the book was executed in the same manner. While well-paced, I never once felt concerned for the characters in this story. I never once felt like any of them were in any real danger. I actually felt like they were being overdramatic more than once and not seeing the forest for the trees. There were also quite a few speech anachronisms in the protagonist’s inner narrative that made me wish the editor had done a bit more thorough job.
It’s a diverting read, if not too exciting or challenging. I think you’ll love it if you love your historical fictions heavier on the fiction side and a bit soapier without a lot of accurate worldbuilding or detail. If you’re looking for accuracy and high stakes, then I’d look for another story.
I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Historical Fiction/Historical Romance
I confess I’m obsessed with Veronica Franco, Lucrezia Borgia, and Giulia Tofana. All three of these women were incredible examples of “don’t judge a book by its cover”. The Assassin of Venice takes place roughly a couple of decades after Lurezia’s lifetime, during Veronica’s, but around a century before Giulia’s. Do I really just like Renaissance women and the idea of them making any combination of sex, intellect, power, and/or violence work in their favor? Why yes, yes I do. Am I under an assumption that all the stories are true? No, no I’m not. Let a girl dream.
Alyssa Palombo takes us readers back to the early half of 16th-century Venice, where Honest Courtesans ply their trade and the Council of Ten watch over the city-state to keep it free of any and all outside influence. Venice was a vitally important port city to Italy during the Renaissance and the military security of the country, the Adriatic Sea, and a chunk of the Mediterranean depended on the Italians due to the threat of the Ottoman Empire from the East. Italy was insular and paranoid, with good reason. Political intrigue and the trading of secrets was a national sport.
The plot of The Assassin of Venice is a good one, romantic and dramatic with an almost-cinematic feel to it. It would make a good movie. That doesn’t necessarily mean the book was executed in the same manner. While well-paced, I never once felt concerned for the characters in this story. I never once felt like any of them were in any real danger. I actually felt like they were being overdramatic more than once and not seeing the forest for the trees. There were also quite a few speech anachronisms in the protagonist’s inner narrative that made me wish the editor had done a bit more thorough job.
It’s a diverting read, if not too exciting or challenging. I think you’ll love it if you love your historical fictions heavier on the fiction side and a bit soapier without a lot of accurate worldbuilding or detail. If you’re looking for accuracy and high stakes, then I’d look for another story.
I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: Historical Fiction/Historical Romance
July 14, 2024
Valentina is a courtesan that also works as an undercover assassin under the instructions of the Council of Ten in order to protect Venice and its political system. She doesn’t have any qualms about these until they instruct her to assassinate her favorite lover.
The plot of the book was not as complex as I expected it to be. It takes a while to establish the circumstances which are described in the blurb. I expected Valentina, the assassin, to be more sharp-witted and ruthless, but she is not as savvy as I hoped her to be. She goes and questions some people, but when the time on her ultimatum runs out, she just accepts the threats that were made. Valentina has very little agency for a woman that is supposed to be a powerful assassin and strong (for the time) emancipated woman. She doesn’t even try the most obvious solution to her problem until someone else pushes her to. There are also no major plot turns or surprises. Because of that, I do not think that category of thriller fits the plot very well. I would say it that this is a historical fiction drama with romance and a hint of mystery.
I am not an expert, but I think most things that were described are historically accurate, although some of the dialogue felt more modern.
Furthermore, I did really like the setting of historical Venice, and found the details and the idea of the book to be interesting and novel (at least to me). The writing was descriptive and easy to follow. My issue with this book is that the blurb already spoiled the majority of the plot and made me have great expectations for what is to follow in the book. Because the storyline is not very complex, this book could just not deliver what I expected from the blurb. If dampen your expectations slightly, don’t read the blurb beforehand, or you just want to ‘visit’ historical Venice, this book might still be enjoyable to you.
I listened to the audiobook and would recommend the production. I really liked the narrator. Her voice is very fitting to the story, and she is even good at doing male voices, which is rear.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for gifting me this ALC of the audiobook to review. All opinions are my own. I was not paid to leave this review.
The plot of the book was not as complex as I expected it to be. It takes a while to establish the circumstances which are described in the blurb. I expected Valentina, the assassin, to be more sharp-witted and ruthless, but she is not as savvy as I hoped her to be. She goes and questions some people, but when the time on her ultimatum runs out, she just accepts the threats that were made. Valentina has very little agency for a woman that is supposed to be a powerful assassin and strong (for the time) emancipated woman. She doesn’t even try the most obvious solution to her problem until someone else pushes her to. There are also no major plot turns or surprises. Because of that, I do not think that category of thriller fits the plot very well. I would say it that this is a historical fiction drama with romance and a hint of mystery.
I am not an expert, but I think most things that were described are historically accurate, although some of the dialogue felt more modern.
Furthermore, I did really like the setting of historical Venice, and found the details and the idea of the book to be interesting and novel (at least to me). The writing was descriptive and easy to follow. My issue with this book is that the blurb already spoiled the majority of the plot and made me have great expectations for what is to follow in the book. Because the storyline is not very complex, this book could just not deliver what I expected from the blurb. If dampen your expectations slightly, don’t read the blurb beforehand, or you just want to ‘visit’ historical Venice, this book might still be enjoyable to you.
I listened to the audiobook and would recommend the production. I really liked the narrator. Her voice is very fitting to the story, and she is even good at doing male voices, which is rear.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for gifting me this ALC of the audiobook to review. All opinions are my own. I was not paid to leave this review.
July 14, 2024
I love stories about courtesan spies and political intrigue, my absolute favourite of which is Kushiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey. I enjoyed The Assassin of Venice too—I liked the setting in Venice, its portrayal as a city of glamour and beauty as well as the shadowy dealings of Council of Ten to ensure the no one—inside or outside of the Venice—ever gained too much power or sought to betray the Republic. I also enjoyed Valentina character—her backstory of how and why she became a courtesan, her decadent lifestyle, and how she justified being an assassin to herself.
I just found overall that the story was very straightforward. I thought it would be way more twisty and engage with much more of Venice besides (not a single trip to any Venetian slums or interactions with anyone who was degrees of separation removed from her that she had to work for or call in favours to meet with) rather than just the relatively small segment and handful of people Valentina already engaged with. Her life was very insular, which severely limited the breadth of spying she was able to do in uncovering the plot of .
I thought what was a stake for Valentina personally was excellent, but her efforts to overcome the situation were quite simplistic, and so many turning points of the story came about by coincidence or her just being handed the solution by someone else. I also found all of the characters so black and white in their personalities—the good characters unfailingly good—which diminished the opportunity for more drama. I was expecting dark secrets, hidden dark sides, sudden betrayals and other unseen agendas that contrasted with Valentina's own and none of this happened.
I did enjoy the symmetry of her , which echoed what had been done to her when she was young and had caused so much pain and trauma that motivated so much of her adult life. I just wished more active intrigue and scheming had preceded it.
I just found overall that the story was very straightforward. I thought it would be way more twisty and engage with much more of Venice besides (not a single trip to any Venetian slums or interactions with anyone who was degrees of separation removed from her that she had to work for or call in favours to meet with) rather than just the relatively small segment and handful of people Valentina already engaged with. Her life was very insular, which severely limited the breadth of spying she was able to do in uncovering the plot of .
I thought what was a stake for Valentina personally was excellent, but her efforts to overcome the situation were quite simplistic, and so many turning points of the story came about by coincidence or her just being handed the solution by someone else. I also found all of the characters so black and white in their personalities—the good characters unfailingly good—which diminished the opportunity for more drama. I was expecting dark secrets, hidden dark sides, sudden betrayals and other unseen agendas that contrasted with Valentina's own and none of this happened.
I did enjoy the symmetry of her , which echoed what had been done to her when she was young and had caused so much pain and trauma that motivated so much of her adult life. I just wished more active intrigue and scheming had preceded it.
June 17, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Alyssa Palombo for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC audiobook for The Assassin of Venice coming out June 18, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Valentina Riccardi is many things: beautiful, cultured, deadly. As one of Venice’s famous courtesans, she’s perfectly positioned to seduce powerful men, get them alone, and assassinate them. Spies. Traitors. Who they are doesn’t matter—only that they made an enemy of the Council of Ten, the shadowy and seemingly omniscient power from which Valentina takes her orders without question.
Venice is her home, and after losing everything once before to an invading army, there is nothing she won’t do to protect her city, for there is nothing she loves more.
Almost nothing.
She vowed to never fall in love again, but Valentina can’t help but give her heart to Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. But when Bastiano starts asking the wrong questions, Valentina receives a new assignment: kill him.
Yet the more Valentina learns about the Council of Ten, the more she wonders if they are truly acting in the interest of the Venetian state, or using her for their own dark ambitions. If Valentina is to save Bastiano, she must untangle their conspiracy—with the help of her fellow courtesans—before it’s too late.
I was excited to get this audiobook. I’ve had the opportunity to visit Venice and I’m obsessed with it. I love Italian history, so I thought the historical aspects of this book were really good. I thought the plot was fascinating. The idea of a courtesan assassin was awesome. I think some of the execution of the story could’ve been a little better for me. I think there were a lot of spice scenes and I would’ve liked a little more of the assassin action going on. Overall, I really enjoyed the story. I thought the narrator was really good. I would check out other books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Italian historical fiction!
Valentina Riccardi is many things: beautiful, cultured, deadly. As one of Venice’s famous courtesans, she’s perfectly positioned to seduce powerful men, get them alone, and assassinate them. Spies. Traitors. Who they are doesn’t matter—only that they made an enemy of the Council of Ten, the shadowy and seemingly omniscient power from which Valentina takes her orders without question.
Venice is her home, and after losing everything once before to an invading army, there is nothing she won’t do to protect her city, for there is nothing she loves more.
Almost nothing.
She vowed to never fall in love again, but Valentina can’t help but give her heart to Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. But when Bastiano starts asking the wrong questions, Valentina receives a new assignment: kill him.
Yet the more Valentina learns about the Council of Ten, the more she wonders if they are truly acting in the interest of the Venetian state, or using her for their own dark ambitions. If Valentina is to save Bastiano, she must untangle their conspiracy—with the help of her fellow courtesans—before it’s too late.
I was excited to get this audiobook. I’ve had the opportunity to visit Venice and I’m obsessed with it. I love Italian history, so I thought the historical aspects of this book were really good. I thought the plot was fascinating. The idea of a courtesan assassin was awesome. I think some of the execution of the story could’ve been a little better for me. I think there were a lot of spice scenes and I would’ve liked a little more of the assassin action going on. Overall, I really enjoyed the story. I thought the narrator was really good. I would check out other books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Italian historical fiction!
July 13, 2024
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙨𝙨𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙑𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝗯𝘆 𝗔𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘀𝗮 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗺𝗯𝗼
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: Follow Valentina Riccardi, a skilled courtesan navigating the intricate world of 16th-century Venice. Her role working for the Council of Ten requires her to seduce and eliminate powerful threats to their city. Valentina’s loyalty is unwavering until she unexpectedly falls for Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. When Bastiano starts uncovering unsettling truths, Valentina faces a heart-wrenching dilemma. Caught between her commitment to duty and her love for Bastiano, she dives into uncovering the Council's true agenda with the support of her fellow courtesans. Valentina races against time to protect Bastiano and unearth a perilous conspiracy that could reshape Venice’s destiny. This tale intricately blends romance, suspense, and the vibrant backdrop of Renaissance history, promising to enthrall readers of historical mysteries.
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Valentina is such a captivating character. I love how she forms genuine connections beyond just seduction. The story is filled with intrigue, making her life as a courtesan incredibly engaging. The pacing in this story was consistent and never felt slow or disjointed. The cover of this book is what initially caught my interest, but I ended up captivated by the author’s vibrant depiction of 16th-century Venice. The beautifully crafted Venetian setting and its rich history add a romantic charm that truly makes for an excellent read. Palombo’s storytelling was full of unexpected twists that made this read exciting and unforgettable.
𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: The narrator for this book, Nicol Zanzarella, did a fantastic job. She brought the characters to life, she kept me captivated the entire time. I would most definitely listen to other books she narrates.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
🗡️ Historical fiction
🗡️ Espionage
🗡️ Assassins
🗡️ Strong female characters
🗡️ Corrupt leaders
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for providing me with the audioARC for this book in exchange for my honest review.
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: Follow Valentina Riccardi, a skilled courtesan navigating the intricate world of 16th-century Venice. Her role working for the Council of Ten requires her to seduce and eliminate powerful threats to their city. Valentina’s loyalty is unwavering until she unexpectedly falls for Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. When Bastiano starts uncovering unsettling truths, Valentina faces a heart-wrenching dilemma. Caught between her commitment to duty and her love for Bastiano, she dives into uncovering the Council's true agenda with the support of her fellow courtesans. Valentina races against time to protect Bastiano and unearth a perilous conspiracy that could reshape Venice’s destiny. This tale intricately blends romance, suspense, and the vibrant backdrop of Renaissance history, promising to enthrall readers of historical mysteries.
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Valentina is such a captivating character. I love how she forms genuine connections beyond just seduction. The story is filled with intrigue, making her life as a courtesan incredibly engaging. The pacing in this story was consistent and never felt slow or disjointed. The cover of this book is what initially caught my interest, but I ended up captivated by the author’s vibrant depiction of 16th-century Venice. The beautifully crafted Venetian setting and its rich history add a romantic charm that truly makes for an excellent read. Palombo’s storytelling was full of unexpected twists that made this read exciting and unforgettable.
𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: The narrator for this book, Nicol Zanzarella, did a fantastic job. She brought the characters to life, she kept me captivated the entire time. I would most definitely listen to other books she narrates.
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆:
🗡️ Historical fiction
🗡️ Espionage
🗡️ Assassins
🗡️ Strong female characters
🗡️ Corrupt leaders
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for providing me with the audioARC for this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 10, 2024
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice’s famous courtesans. Because she is not only beautiful and poised, but also up on all of the latest politics as well as can recite poetry among other things, she is in high demand. One of those demanding her attention is unfortunately the Council of Ten - a group ten elected officials who kept a tight rein on matters of state security., and effectively ruled the Republic of Venice. A member of the Ten has come to her Valentina many times, letting her know of a traitor to Venice, a spy, or someone else that needs to be dealt with, and Valentina is assigned to kill them. She dislikes the assignments, but she does it for Venice, which she loves dearly. Then one day she receives an assignment to kill her lover and the father of her daughter, Bastiano Bragadin, who is also an assassin for the Ten. The more she learns about the one who has been giving her the assignments, the more she questions whether he is do this for his own agenda or for the good of Venice.
I am a huge fan of this author and this book did not disappoint. I couldn't put it down. Although the characters themselves were fictional, as were courtesan assassins (that we know of), the Council of Ten was very real. The author also gave a lot of information about courtesans during that time period that was fascinating, Valentina was a delightful female protagonist, with her spunk and wit. Interspersed throughout the book are "interludes" that gradually tell the story of a young woman and her journey, but it isn't until the last 30 percent of the book that you discover who that person is. I was surprised when the name was revealed, and I think you will be too. If you are a fan of historical fiction, you will definitely want to put this at the top of your TBR pile. You are going to love it!
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice’s famous courtesans. Because she is not only beautiful and poised, but also up on all of the latest politics as well as can recite poetry among other things, she is in high demand. One of those demanding her attention is unfortunately the Council of Ten - a group ten elected officials who kept a tight rein on matters of state security., and effectively ruled the Republic of Venice. A member of the Ten has come to her Valentina many times, letting her know of a traitor to Venice, a spy, or someone else that needs to be dealt with, and Valentina is assigned to kill them. She dislikes the assignments, but she does it for Venice, which she loves dearly. Then one day she receives an assignment to kill her lover and the father of her daughter, Bastiano Bragadin, who is also an assassin for the Ten. The more she learns about the one who has been giving her the assignments, the more she questions whether he is do this for his own agenda or for the good of Venice.
I am a huge fan of this author and this book did not disappoint. I couldn't put it down. Although the characters themselves were fictional, as were courtesan assassins (that we know of), the Council of Ten was very real. The author also gave a lot of information about courtesans during that time period that was fascinating, Valentina was a delightful female protagonist, with her spunk and wit. Interspersed throughout the book are "interludes" that gradually tell the story of a young woman and her journey, but it isn't until the last 30 percent of the book that you discover who that person is. I was surprised when the name was revealed, and I think you will be too. If you are a fan of historical fiction, you will definitely want to put this at the top of your TBR pile. You are going to love it!
June 5, 2024
Valentina is one of Venice’s most beautiful courtesans who seduces powerful men. She is also tasked to get them alone and assassinate the ones who make enemies of of the Council of Ten, a power from which she takes orders. However, she is tasks to assassinate her favorite lover, Bastiano Bragadin who is also an assassin. Valintina starts to wonder if The Council of Ten is truly acting for the Venetian state the more she learns about them.
This historical fiction explores 16th century Venice and the real history of Venetian honest courtesans and the intelligence service.
Seeing that this was categorized as a thriller, I thought it would be a great read. The time period interested me since I love historical fiction. I could tell that Valentina had wants and needs that would make her a sympathetic character.
I was disappointed by the amount of sexual content, so much so that I had to stop reading at 15%. I found the graphic depictions did not add to the story and could have been conveyed more subtly. My initial impressions were that the book was interesting and a bit mysterious. I would have liked more of the thriller/mystery aspect which is what made me select it in the first palce.
If the sexual content was toned down, I’d be willing to give it another try because I think it had an interesting concept. I feel like a better category for this book would be New Adult/Historical Fiction rather than Mysteries/Thrillers Historical Fiction.
This historical fiction explores 16th century Venice and the real history of Venetian honest courtesans and the intelligence service.
Seeing that this was categorized as a thriller, I thought it would be a great read. The time period interested me since I love historical fiction. I could tell that Valentina had wants and needs that would make her a sympathetic character.
I was disappointed by the amount of sexual content, so much so that I had to stop reading at 15%. I found the graphic depictions did not add to the story and could have been conveyed more subtly. My initial impressions were that the book was interesting and a bit mysterious. I would have liked more of the thriller/mystery aspect which is what made me select it in the first palce.
If the sexual content was toned down, I’d be willing to give it another try because I think it had an interesting concept. I feel like a better category for this book would be New Adult/Historical Fiction rather than Mysteries/Thrillers Historical Fiction.
June 10, 2024
As a courtesan, Valentina Riccardi is successful. As an assassin, she’s doubly so - who would expect death from a woman hired to provide pleasure? Both she and her lover Bastiano Bragadin take on assignments from The Ten, a council sworn to uphold Venice’s independence. She’s been holding her two worlds in check until now, when her next assignment is to kill Bastiano, or a loved one will die.
Trapped between two impossible threats, Valentina investigates after Bastiano goes into hiding. Pulling all her skills and resources together, she strives to find a way out before her deadline.
The Assassin of Venice was gritty, emotional, and blew my expectations out of the water. I thought it would be a romance with some light assassination and a mystery, and instead I found politics, complexity, and residual philosophical questions on love. I was very appreciative of the depth of this book.
Readers should be aware that it is not a clean read; there are brief love scenes, swearing, and mildly descriptive assassinations. They didn’t trouble me.
I enjoyed following Valentina through her harrowing journey as I was right there with her. She showed fortitude, resourcefulness, and care through a time that would have broken me. The supporting characters were great and made this book successful.
Trapped between two impossible threats, Valentina investigates after Bastiano goes into hiding. Pulling all her skills and resources together, she strives to find a way out before her deadline.
The Assassin of Venice was gritty, emotional, and blew my expectations out of the water. I thought it would be a romance with some light assassination and a mystery, and instead I found politics, complexity, and residual philosophical questions on love. I was very appreciative of the depth of this book.
Readers should be aware that it is not a clean read; there are brief love scenes, swearing, and mildly descriptive assassinations. They didn’t trouble me.
I enjoyed following Valentina through her harrowing journey as I was right there with her. She showed fortitude, resourcefulness, and care through a time that would have broken me. The supporting characters were great and made this book successful.
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