The Medici Murders is an entertaining mystery set in the picturesque squares, alleyways and cloisters of Venice, as a retired English archivist teams up with a Capitano of the local Carabinieri to solve a mystery with historical undercurrents in the city's past.

Via a well-constructed dual timeline, a fascinating story emerges. Pop-History documentary presenter Sir Marmaduke "Duke" Godolphin has been found dead in the Rio de San Tomà canal, having apparently met with an unknown assailant on the Ponte San Tomà the previous evening. That bridge is none other than the location of the notorious murder, on 26th February 1548, of Florentine exile Lorenzino de' Medici by two hired thugs.

Carabinieri Capitano Valentina Fabbri has summoned retired English archivist Arnold Clover to her offices on Campo San Zaccaria, to provide assistance with the case.

As Capitano Fabbri probes, Clover gradually relates his observations of Godolphin, the "gilded circle" of former acolytes and more recent hangers-on who have accompanied him to Venice and the various jealousies, resentments and potential motives that exist amongst the members of the group. Woven amidst the personal drama are the emerging details of the fascinating assignment that Clover and his Venetian friend Luca Volpetti had embarked upon at Godolphin's behest. Will Clover's efforts to shed light on a 470-year-0ld mystery assist Fabbri to solve this recent suspicious death?

I have enjoyed David Hewson's writing immensely in the past, and The Medici Murders reinforced this impression. Hewson shows a real understanding and affection for the city of Venice and the setting is perfectly integrated with the plot.

I'd highly recommend The Medici Murders to any reader who enjoys well-plotted and atmospheric mysteries. This book will particularly appeal to lovers of Venice and those with an interest in Renaissance art and history.

My thanks to the author, David Hewson, publisher Severn House, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this compelling title.