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Cesare Aldo #4
A Divine Fury
Florence. Autumn, 1539.
Cesare Aldo was once an officer for the city’s most feared criminal court. Following a period of exile, he is back – but demoted to night patrol, when only the drunk and the dangerous roam the streets.
Chasing a suspect in the rain, Aldo discovers a horrifying scene beneath Michelangelo’s statue of David. Lifeless eyes gaze from the face of a man whose body has been posed as if crucified. It’s clear the killer had religious motives.
When more bodies appear, Aldo believes an unholy murderer is stalking the citizens of Florence. Watching. Hunting. Waiting for the perfect moment to strike again . . .
Cesare Aldo was once an officer for the city’s most feared criminal court. Following a period of exile, he is back – but demoted to night patrol, when only the drunk and the dangerous roam the streets.
Chasing a suspect in the rain, Aldo discovers a horrifying scene beneath Michelangelo’s statue of David. Lifeless eyes gaze from the face of a man whose body has been posed as if crucified. It’s clear the killer had religious motives.
When more bodies appear, Aldo believes an unholy murderer is stalking the citizens of Florence. Watching. Hunting. Waiting for the perfect moment to strike again . . .
416 pages, Paperback
Published August 5, 2025
41 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
D.V. Bishop
7 books89 followersGrew up in Mt Roskill, Auckland, Aotearoa.
In July 2023 D.V. Bishop became the first New Zealand writer to win the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association (CWA) Historical Dagger Award with his novel The Darkest Sin.
In July 2023 D.V. Bishop became the first New Zealand writer to win the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association (CWA) Historical Dagger Award with his novel The Darkest Sin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 10, 2024
It’s 1539 in Florence and Cesare Aldo, formally an officer of the city’s police force known as the Otto, is not enjoying his year long demotion to the night patrol, especially as winter approaches. Chasing someone out after curfew, he comes across the body of a wealthy merchant strangled and posed as if crucified, suggesting a religious motive for his murder. Aldo manages to convince his vindictive boss, Bindi to assign him to help officer Carlo Strocchi investigate the murder. A second murder victim, this time a struggling thief killed and posed in the same manner puts pressure on Aldo and Strocchi to find the killer soon.
Renaissance Italy is well depicted in this historical thriller series set in Florence. The twenty year old Duke, Cosimo de Medici is ruling with a firm hand and has ears and eyes everywhere, although the Church has its own power and is above answering to the Otto. Aldo finds himself recruited by Cosimo to ingratiate himself with a dangerous Contessa who spies for Venice and will need to be careful as she tries to suck him into her web of intrigue and espionage. The complex mystery and the well crafted characters all add to the dynamic making this a lively and engrossing read.
With thanks to Pan Macmillan via Netgalley for a copy to read
Renaissance Italy is well depicted in this historical thriller series set in Florence. The twenty year old Duke, Cosimo de Medici is ruling with a firm hand and has ears and eyes everywhere, although the Church has its own power and is above answering to the Otto. Aldo finds himself recruited by Cosimo to ingratiate himself with a dangerous Contessa who spies for Venice and will need to be careful as she tries to suck him into her web of intrigue and espionage. The complex mystery and the well crafted characters all add to the dynamic making this a lively and engrossing read.
With thanks to Pan Macmillan via Netgalley for a copy to read
August 28, 2024
This is the fourth book in the Cesare Aldo series, but it can easily be read as a standalone.
Anyway, once you’ve read this book, you’ll want to read the other three books too. By now, Cesare Aldo is slowly becoming my favourite historical detective. This adventure starts with a very unhappy Aldo – for seventeen months now he’s responsible for nightly patrols around the city. A demotion from officer to night patrol which he didn’t deserve. On a cold November night Aldo finds a dead body; a man who appears to be strangled. With that, a real cat-and-mouse play begins, for this body is not the last one. Soon, there are others but even sooner, Aldo’s superior Bindi demands Aldo and his colleague Strocchi find the killer, preferably within a week. In the mean time Aldo gets a second very unwelcome assignment from the Duke, Cosimo de’ Medici, an assignment that leads him to a very interesting Contessa and another dead body. Are the murders related? And if so, who is behind them and what connects the victims?
A very ‘modern’ plot but with a real historical background. There is talk about cities spying on each other (in 1539 Italy was divided in city-states who were not always friendly with each other) and priests performing exorcisms; many (so not all) victims of this practice were innocent people suffering from certain illnesses – or they just didn’t fit in.
Also needs to juggle all that’s going on in his life: his love for his friend (an absolutely forbidden love), his love for his work (that is, capturing criminals, not being a night guard), the fact that he needs to guide Strocchi and to avoid Bindi… so many things going on at once. Aldo wouldn’t be Aldo if he didn’t find a way to solve (most of his) problems anyway.
This book is a joy to read because of the interesting main characters and the wonderful funny dialogues! Looking forward to the next one in this series.
Thanks to PanMacMillan and Netgalley for this review copy.
Anyway, once you’ve read this book, you’ll want to read the other three books too. By now, Cesare Aldo is slowly becoming my favourite historical detective. This adventure starts with a very unhappy Aldo – for seventeen months now he’s responsible for nightly patrols around the city. A demotion from officer to night patrol which he didn’t deserve. On a cold November night Aldo finds a dead body; a man who appears to be strangled. With that, a real cat-and-mouse play begins, for this body is not the last one. Soon, there are others but even sooner, Aldo’s superior Bindi demands Aldo and his colleague Strocchi find the killer, preferably within a week. In the mean time Aldo gets a second very unwelcome assignment from the Duke, Cosimo de’ Medici, an assignment that leads him to a very interesting Contessa and another dead body. Are the murders related? And if so, who is behind them and what connects the victims?
A very ‘modern’ plot but with a real historical background. There is talk about cities spying on each other (in 1539 Italy was divided in city-states who were not always friendly with each other) and priests performing exorcisms; many (so not all) victims of this practice were innocent people suffering from certain illnesses – or they just didn’t fit in.
Also needs to juggle all that’s going on in his life: his love for his friend (an absolutely forbidden love), his love for his work (that is, capturing criminals, not being a night guard), the fact that he needs to guide Strocchi and to avoid Bindi… so many things going on at once. Aldo wouldn’t be Aldo if he didn’t find a way to solve (most of his) problems anyway.
This book is a joy to read because of the interesting main characters and the wonderful funny dialogues! Looking forward to the next one in this series.
Thanks to PanMacMillan and Netgalley for this review copy.
June 25, 2024
4.5 rounded up to 5. The score is high because as well as being an interesting plot, we see the personal and professional development of Aldo in a way which promises a new direction for the series from now on. I don’t want to say much more to avoid spoilers but if you’ve enjoyed the series so far, read on! Many thanks to NetGalley for an arc of this book.
September 13, 2024
A Divine Fury by D.V. Bishop is the fourth book in the ongoing Cesare Aldo series and features our favourite sixteenth century detective back in Florence, still working nights after his demotion. While chasing a suspect through the city he stumbles across a dead body beneath the statue of David . It is immediately obvious that the man has been murdered and since the body was posed to resemble the crucifiction it suggests that the killer may have a religious motive. Facing pressure from his boss Aldo is roped in to try to solve the case with the help of his colleague Strocci ,but if this is not enough to keep him busy the new Duke also has plans for him, sending him to liase with a suspected Venetian spy and act as a double agent. This new role leads to some of the most fun and sparkling interactions in the book, and I loved the new character Countess Coltello, I hope to see more of her as the series continues,As more dead bodies start to pile up the pressure on Aldo continues, made even more complicated by the involvement of the Church given their penchant for preferring to deal with problems internally cutting out the city officials completely.
This is a complex well plotted mystery that kept me guessing to the very end. Though it is part of a well established series I think it could easily be read as a stand alone, the author weaves enough background into the storytelling to make it easy for a new reader to follow along. Readers who are already familiar with the previous books will be happy to see some familiar faces return, As always the writing is very evocative ,the vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds and most especially smells of the city really help to set the scene for the reader. Not to spoil anything but the ending made me very excited about what the future holds for Aldo.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
This is a complex well plotted mystery that kept me guessing to the very end. Though it is part of a well established series I think it could easily be read as a stand alone, the author weaves enough background into the storytelling to make it easy for a new reader to follow along. Readers who are already familiar with the previous books will be happy to see some familiar faces return, As always the writing is very evocative ,the vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds and most especially smells of the city really help to set the scene for the reader. Not to spoil anything but the ending made me very excited about what the future holds for Aldo.
I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.
August 10, 2024
Set in Autumn 1539, "Divine Fury" returns you to Florence, where Cesare Aldo, back from the wilderness, resumes his night patrol duties. A routine chase leads him and his companion to a corpse posed beneath Michelangelo's David, hinting at something far more sinister when another body surfaces the next day. As Aldo and his colleague Strocci investigate, they become entangled in a web of intrigue involving merchants, the church, and the powerful de Medici family.
The author creates a complex, believable plot while further developing beloved characters. Familiar faces, like Aldo's lover Saul and the pitiful Bindi, return alongside new ones, adding depth to the narrative. The relationship between Aldo and Strocci remains a highlight, as they navigate their frustrations and friendship.
A captivating subplot involving Contessa Valentine Coltello, Venice's spymaster, adds intrigue and hints at future developments. While the final twist might not surprise diehard fans, it satisfies, setting the stage for Aldo's next chapter, and leaving you eager for more.
My thanks to both NetGalley and MacMillan for an e-arc and an honest opinion.
The author creates a complex, believable plot while further developing beloved characters. Familiar faces, like Aldo's lover Saul and the pitiful Bindi, return alongside new ones, adding depth to the narrative. The relationship between Aldo and Strocci remains a highlight, as they navigate their frustrations and friendship.
A captivating subplot involving Contessa Valentine Coltello, Venice's spymaster, adds intrigue and hints at future developments. While the final twist might not surprise diehard fans, it satisfies, setting the stage for Aldo's next chapter, and leaving you eager for more.
My thanks to both NetGalley and MacMillan for an e-arc and an honest opinion.
June 14, 2024
Rep: gay mc, bi mc, nonbinary side character
CWs: period typical homophobia & ableism, exorcism
Galley provided by publisher
A Divine Fury is another great entry in the Cesare Aldo series. Opening up a few months after the end of the third book, Aldo is back in Florence, no longer a constable but instead demoted to night patrol. It’s here that he stumbles across a conspiracy, but one that’s harder to uncover in the daylight.
As with previous books, this is a fast paced mystery, almost thriller-like at times, and that’s its biggest strength. I usually gravitate towards more in-depth historical fiction than this, but it’s the quick nature of it that I like most here. You’re never in want of the next thing happening and, quite often, it’s a move you don’t really expect.
Bishop is also not afraid of putting his characters into sticky situations — here, Aldo has been put on night patrol, a far cry from his position in previous books as he remains out of favour in the Otto. Added onto that, Strocchi has taken up the position that Aldo previously held and is not in the best of moods with his old friend/colleague. Which is hardly improved when Aldo starts to go lone wolf on the investigation that is, supposedly, run by Strocchi.
Overall, A Divine Fury is a fun new entry into the series, one that will have you on your toes, keeping you guessing throughout. And given that ending, one that leaves me excited for what’s to come.
CWs: period typical homophobia & ableism, exorcism
Galley provided by publisher
A Divine Fury is another great entry in the Cesare Aldo series. Opening up a few months after the end of the third book, Aldo is back in Florence, no longer a constable but instead demoted to night patrol. It’s here that he stumbles across a conspiracy, but one that’s harder to uncover in the daylight.
As with previous books, this is a fast paced mystery, almost thriller-like at times, and that’s its biggest strength. I usually gravitate towards more in-depth historical fiction than this, but it’s the quick nature of it that I like most here. You’re never in want of the next thing happening and, quite often, it’s a move you don’t really expect.
Bishop is also not afraid of putting his characters into sticky situations — here, Aldo has been put on night patrol, a far cry from his position in previous books as he remains out of favour in the Otto. Added onto that, Strocchi has taken up the position that Aldo previously held and is not in the best of moods with his old friend/colleague. Which is hardly improved when Aldo starts to go lone wolf on the investigation that is, supposedly, run by Strocchi.
Overall, A Divine Fury is a fun new entry into the series, one that will have you on your toes, keeping you guessing throughout. And given that ending, one that leaves me excited for what’s to come.
September 4, 2024
Oh my goodness, this is another fabulous book in the Cesare Aldo series. This is book 4 and it just gets better and better. The setting is Florence in 1539.
Aldo has been demoted so he is back to being a Constable, even worse is that he is on night patrol. He and his immediate boss, Bindi, do not get on. Strocchi, who used to be Aldo's second, is now his boss. During one of the night patrols, Aldo chases someone out after curfew. Before he can apprehend him though, he comes across a body in one of the many squares of Florence.
The author uses a wonderful blend of fact and fiction in this series of books and he weaves them together so well. At the end of the book, there is a mention of what he has taken a liberty with or who he has created to fill the part. I will say that the author's love of this era is apparent in his writing as it is addictive and full of life.
As Bindi piles the pressure on Strocchi to find the murderer he is also frustrated that Aldo has shown his face and is going to be part of the investigation. Also has been Strocchi's teacher and they still do work well together but let us just say Strocchi still has quite a lot to learn when it comes to standing his ground.
With the murder still fresh, there is a second, talk about adding more pressure! The MO is the same and to make sure of their facts, Aldo uses his friend Saul, a doctor, to help out. If you have read the previous books you will be aware of Saul and also his assistant Rebecca and how they are all connected. If not the author does fill in enough detail.
The case leads them to a church where an exorcist is in residence, he is not popular with everyone and there is something about him that feels dangerous. But then this is Florence in the mid-1500s and there is a lot of backstabbing, political shenanigans and power rivalries. Just to add more fuel to the fire there are mentions of the spy rings that operate as well. Talk about danger, intrigue and suspense!
Given this is a story that is set several centuries ago and the pace at which things are done is very much slower than in todays fast paced world, the author does inject a great pace to the story. There is always something happening and something for the investigators to look at or ask about.
Aldo is fabulous, he is a real pain in some ways but he has a nice knack to getting to the crux of the problem, not necessarily immediately, but eventually. This is something that the author has worked well into the character and it makes him a bit of a lone wolf, but also part of something. Although things in the future are a changing!
This is a great 4th book and the case is intriguing, has some amazing twists and manipulation. A fabulous historical fiction story that I would definitely recommend , along with all the others in the series.
Aldo has been demoted so he is back to being a Constable, even worse is that he is on night patrol. He and his immediate boss, Bindi, do not get on. Strocchi, who used to be Aldo's second, is now his boss. During one of the night patrols, Aldo chases someone out after curfew. Before he can apprehend him though, he comes across a body in one of the many squares of Florence.
The author uses a wonderful blend of fact and fiction in this series of books and he weaves them together so well. At the end of the book, there is a mention of what he has taken a liberty with or who he has created to fill the part. I will say that the author's love of this era is apparent in his writing as it is addictive and full of life.
As Bindi piles the pressure on Strocchi to find the murderer he is also frustrated that Aldo has shown his face and is going to be part of the investigation. Also has been Strocchi's teacher and they still do work well together but let us just say Strocchi still has quite a lot to learn when it comes to standing his ground.
With the murder still fresh, there is a second, talk about adding more pressure! The MO is the same and to make sure of their facts, Aldo uses his friend Saul, a doctor, to help out. If you have read the previous books you will be aware of Saul and also his assistant Rebecca and how they are all connected. If not the author does fill in enough detail.
The case leads them to a church where an exorcist is in residence, he is not popular with everyone and there is something about him that feels dangerous. But then this is Florence in the mid-1500s and there is a lot of backstabbing, political shenanigans and power rivalries. Just to add more fuel to the fire there are mentions of the spy rings that operate as well. Talk about danger, intrigue and suspense!
Given this is a story that is set several centuries ago and the pace at which things are done is very much slower than in todays fast paced world, the author does inject a great pace to the story. There is always something happening and something for the investigators to look at or ask about.
Aldo is fabulous, he is a real pain in some ways but he has a nice knack to getting to the crux of the problem, not necessarily immediately, but eventually. This is something that the author has worked well into the character and it makes him a bit of a lone wolf, but also part of something. Although things in the future are a changing!
This is a great 4th book and the case is intriguing, has some amazing twists and manipulation. A fabulous historical fiction story that I would definitely recommend , along with all the others in the series.
January 9, 2025
The fourth book in the Cesare Aldo Renaissance Florence series by D.V. Bishop continues to bring excitement into my reading world. This series has been one of my favorites since discovering it several years ago.
While much of what I loved about the first three novels remained—an atmospheric setting, a compelling mystery, and a well-rounded, diverse cast—several things prevented me from giving this book the full five stars.
The reintroducing of minor characters from previous books can be a good thing. However in this instance it was done clumsily. Leaving their significance lacking.
My second issue with characters was that new characters added in prominent roles made them slightly predictable. Lacking depth and credible motive their actions felt rushed and irrational. This felt like an attempt for them to catch up to the other ‘villains’ in the novel.
While continuing in a similar vein to the previous three novels, revolving around religion, politics, corruption, and, of course, murder, at times conclusions were reached too quickly, diminishing the impact of unpredictable twists.
With the negatives out of the way, the book does an excellent job of carrying on each character's story from the previous novels. The story was just as intriguing as the three previous ones, and it tied together nicely.
The atmosphere remains tremendous, with the author capturing the essence of 1530s Florence. The balance of power between the Church, the court, and the Duke that has a stranglehold on the city only adds to the intricacies.
Overall, a very good addition to a great series. While my least favorite of the four books, I feel it could play an important part in the growth of Cesare Aldo, especially considering the ending.
While much of what I loved about the first three novels remained—an atmospheric setting, a compelling mystery, and a well-rounded, diverse cast—several things prevented me from giving this book the full five stars.
The reintroducing of minor characters from previous books can be a good thing. However in this instance it was done clumsily. Leaving their significance lacking.
My second issue with characters was that new characters added in prominent roles made them slightly predictable. Lacking depth and credible motive their actions felt rushed and irrational. This felt like an attempt for them to catch up to the other ‘villains’ in the novel.
While continuing in a similar vein to the previous three novels, revolving around religion, politics, corruption, and, of course, murder, at times conclusions were reached too quickly, diminishing the impact of unpredictable twists.
With the negatives out of the way, the book does an excellent job of carrying on each character's story from the previous novels. The story was just as intriguing as the three previous ones, and it tied together nicely.
The atmosphere remains tremendous, with the author capturing the essence of 1530s Florence. The balance of power between the Church, the court, and the Duke that has a stranglehold on the city only adds to the intricacies.
Overall, a very good addition to a great series. While my least favorite of the four books, I feel it could play an important part in the growth of Cesare Aldo, especially considering the ending.
June 24, 2024
4.5⭐️ rounded up
January 22, 2025
Back to 1539, and a demoted Cesare Aldo is doing the night patrol; doing the rounds of the city in the curfew hours. Then, the discovery of a body, posed as the statue David leads him back to investigative duties and working again with his old friend Strocchi.
This episode in Aldo’s life features the practise of exorcism, and the subsequent issues raised by that - add in some juicy gossip, a bit of double agenting, and Aldo’s ongoing sadness at not being able to be with his love, then you have a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I look forward to see what he’s up to next…
This episode in Aldo’s life features the practise of exorcism, and the subsequent issues raised by that - add in some juicy gossip, a bit of double agenting, and Aldo’s ongoing sadness at not being able to be with his love, then you have a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I look forward to see what he’s up to next…
March 12, 2024
Eighteen months have passed since Cesare Aldo’s last outing and following his demotion from ‘officer’, he is still working as a constable on the night patrol. It’s a shift that is usually temporary, but for they seem to have made an exception for Aldo.
One morning, while the curfew is still in force, following a chase through the city, Aldo comes across a body. The body positioned to look like the victim has been crucified. The following morning, a second body is found, killed the same way and placed in the same position. Aldo, and his associate Strocci are given the job of finding the killer. When they worked together before Aldo was the officer and Strocci the constable, but now the roles are reversed. However, they have to put that to one side if they are to find the person responsible for the murders.
Set against the background of Florence during the early years of the reign of Cosimo de’ Medici, this book is full of intrigue. Who is spying on whom? Who is telling the truth? Is anyone telling the truth?
Sixteenth century Florence comes alive within the pages of this book. The characters are well rounded and believable and the plot has twist after twist. This is the fourth in the Cesare Aldo series, all of which I have really enjoyed, and there are some references to the earlier books. That said, it could easily be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this book and offer an honest opinion.
One morning, while the curfew is still in force, following a chase through the city, Aldo comes across a body. The body positioned to look like the victim has been crucified. The following morning, a second body is found, killed the same way and placed in the same position. Aldo, and his associate Strocci are given the job of finding the killer. When they worked together before Aldo was the officer and Strocci the constable, but now the roles are reversed. However, they have to put that to one side if they are to find the person responsible for the murders.
Set against the background of Florence during the early years of the reign of Cosimo de’ Medici, this book is full of intrigue. Who is spying on whom? Who is telling the truth? Is anyone telling the truth?
Sixteenth century Florence comes alive within the pages of this book. The characters are well rounded and believable and the plot has twist after twist. This is the fourth in the Cesare Aldo series, all of which I have really enjoyed, and there are some references to the earlier books. That said, it could easily be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this book and offer an honest opinion.
July 15, 2025
A Divine Fury by D. V. Bishop
Macmillan UK
5/5
⏳#historicalfiction ⚡️#mystery #thriller #crime 🌈#lgbt
Ok, so I’m notorious for saying (to myself mostly) that I don’t want to get involved with series of books, and then I “meet” Cesare Aldo and I’m four books in, anxiously waiting for book five* - because of the end of book four!!
Typical.
I quite happy with my Aldo-Addiction, and I honestly think that more people should join me.
I love the historical detail, and how the Catholic Church have a stranglehold on every aspect of life in Florence (well, everywhere Catholic, really). Aldo is just a thoroughly lovely character, as is Officer Strocchi, his wife and Saul (a Jewish doctor).
It’s a fine line these officers have to walk when they find a murdered man, set up in a clearly religious tableau. And the murderer doesn’t just stop at one victim.
There are other issues for Aldo and Strocchi to deal with, but the story never seems over-stuffed with information.
I absolutely love these stories, and I’m REALLY looking forward to getting stuck in to the next one!
*I actually have book five, and it’s high up the tbr - I just need a few more hours in my day!
Macmillan UK
5/5
⏳#historicalfiction ⚡️#mystery #thriller #crime 🌈#lgbt
Ok, so I’m notorious for saying (to myself mostly) that I don’t want to get involved with series of books, and then I “meet” Cesare Aldo and I’m four books in, anxiously waiting for book five* - because of the end of book four!!
Typical.
I quite happy with my Aldo-Addiction, and I honestly think that more people should join me.
I love the historical detail, and how the Catholic Church have a stranglehold on every aspect of life in Florence (well, everywhere Catholic, really). Aldo is just a thoroughly lovely character, as is Officer Strocchi, his wife and Saul (a Jewish doctor).
It’s a fine line these officers have to walk when they find a murdered man, set up in a clearly religious tableau. And the murderer doesn’t just stop at one victim.
There are other issues for Aldo and Strocchi to deal with, but the story never seems over-stuffed with information.
I absolutely love these stories, and I’m REALLY looking forward to getting stuck in to the next one!
*I actually have book five, and it’s high up the tbr - I just need a few more hours in my day!
September 23, 2024
I really enjoy the Cesare Aldo series. Aldo has suffered varied fortunes during his time as an officer for the court. Now, following a period of exile, he is back in Florence, but working in the lowly job of night patrol, where his role is to enforce the curfew and pick up the drunken or the malevolent from the dark streets.
David Bishop does an excellent job of depicting Florence as a town where the shadows contain secrets; where messengers flit through dark deserted streets carrying secret messages to their co-conspirators. This is Medici Florence where conspiracies lie round every dark corner and many a plot is underfoot.
This is a series which keeps getting better. Aldo is an engaging, amiable character. Quick witted and steadfastly loyal to those he loves, Aldo has had his crosses to bear. Not only must he live a double life, but he reports to his crass, bullying boss, Bindi, who would not know a good strategy if it hit him in the face – something Aldo would dearly love to do. But Bindi is vindictive; this is his way of punishing Aldo for sometimes gaining the upper hand. Making him walk the dark streets as a lowly foot constable on night patrol, he keeps Aldo down deliberately.
Out on a routine foot patrol one evening, Aldo and his colleague start to pursue a shadowy figure roaming within the city’s walls. But their chase is abandoned when the pair find the dead body of a merchant beneath Michelangelo’s statue of David. The body of a merchant is posed and mutilated in a very distinctive fashion.
Persuading Bindi to assign Strocci to the case alongside him, Aldo must then suffer the indignity of working to Strocchi’s command, despite being the more experienced investigator. Moreover, Strocchi has yet to come to terms with Aldo’s lifestyle and is not yet comfortable working side by side with him, although things are a little better than they were.
When, the following day, the body of a thief known to Aldo is discovered posed and mutilated in the same fashion, Bindi leans heavily on the duo to get these murders solved.
Leaving Strocchi to carry out the fundamentals of the investigation, Aldo follows his own lines of enquiry which lead him into a web of deceit, intrigue, spies and, as if that were not enough, the role of the Church and how it deals with demonic possession – including the Church’s own version of conversion therapy.
Aldo takes on the role of spy and confidant – at the behest of the new Duke, making the acquaintance of Contessa Valentine Coltello, a woman whose learning and quick wits are a match for Aldo’s own. She is ruthless, and cunning and knows just how to get what she wants. Aldo has a respect for her, despite the fact that she is a high placed source for the Council of Ten. There is steel here that he can admire and a mind that he can enjoy sparring with. Their interactions are delightful and a real pleasure to read the spark that their jousting brings to their relationship.
David Bishop really brings Medici Florence alive with the politics of the time; the rivalry between Florence and its sister city of Venezia. The all-powerful role of the Church and the constant intrigue and power struggles that are rife within the city add to the historical detail to give the reader a vivid and evocative sense of place and time. His sense of the ever shifting power dynamics of the time really brings a force to this series that makes it both fascinating and intriguing.
As the pressure piles on Aldo and Strocchi to solve the murders, so Aldo also takes time to consider his next move. The answers all come together in a way that is illuminating, surprising and in one way, almost inevitable.
Verdict: A Divine Fury is a cracker of a read and my favourite in the series so far. More than that, though, David Bishop has left me excited for where this series goes next and I am really looking forward to developments in the next Cesare Aldo book. Highly recommended.
David Bishop does an excellent job of depicting Florence as a town where the shadows contain secrets; where messengers flit through dark deserted streets carrying secret messages to their co-conspirators. This is Medici Florence where conspiracies lie round every dark corner and many a plot is underfoot.
This is a series which keeps getting better. Aldo is an engaging, amiable character. Quick witted and steadfastly loyal to those he loves, Aldo has had his crosses to bear. Not only must he live a double life, but he reports to his crass, bullying boss, Bindi, who would not know a good strategy if it hit him in the face – something Aldo would dearly love to do. But Bindi is vindictive; this is his way of punishing Aldo for sometimes gaining the upper hand. Making him walk the dark streets as a lowly foot constable on night patrol, he keeps Aldo down deliberately.
Out on a routine foot patrol one evening, Aldo and his colleague start to pursue a shadowy figure roaming within the city’s walls. But their chase is abandoned when the pair find the dead body of a merchant beneath Michelangelo’s statue of David. The body of a merchant is posed and mutilated in a very distinctive fashion.
Persuading Bindi to assign Strocci to the case alongside him, Aldo must then suffer the indignity of working to Strocchi’s command, despite being the more experienced investigator. Moreover, Strocchi has yet to come to terms with Aldo’s lifestyle and is not yet comfortable working side by side with him, although things are a little better than they were.
When, the following day, the body of a thief known to Aldo is discovered posed and mutilated in the same fashion, Bindi leans heavily on the duo to get these murders solved.
Leaving Strocchi to carry out the fundamentals of the investigation, Aldo follows his own lines of enquiry which lead him into a web of deceit, intrigue, spies and, as if that were not enough, the role of the Church and how it deals with demonic possession – including the Church’s own version of conversion therapy.
Aldo takes on the role of spy and confidant – at the behest of the new Duke, making the acquaintance of Contessa Valentine Coltello, a woman whose learning and quick wits are a match for Aldo’s own. She is ruthless, and cunning and knows just how to get what she wants. Aldo has a respect for her, despite the fact that she is a high placed source for the Council of Ten. There is steel here that he can admire and a mind that he can enjoy sparring with. Their interactions are delightful and a real pleasure to read the spark that their jousting brings to their relationship.
David Bishop really brings Medici Florence alive with the politics of the time; the rivalry between Florence and its sister city of Venezia. The all-powerful role of the Church and the constant intrigue and power struggles that are rife within the city add to the historical detail to give the reader a vivid and evocative sense of place and time. His sense of the ever shifting power dynamics of the time really brings a force to this series that makes it both fascinating and intriguing.
As the pressure piles on Aldo and Strocchi to solve the murders, so Aldo also takes time to consider his next move. The answers all come together in a way that is illuminating, surprising and in one way, almost inevitable.
Verdict: A Divine Fury is a cracker of a read and my favourite in the series so far. More than that, though, David Bishop has left me excited for where this series goes next and I am really looking forward to developments in the next Cesare Aldo book. Highly recommended.
March 5, 2024
This series just gets better and better.
It's Autumn 1539, and some eighteen months have passed since the events of "Ritual of Fire". Cesare Aldo has returned from the wilderness, and is back in Florence, albeit still as a constable and on permanent night patrol. A curfew is in force, so his work mainly involves picking up drunks and other persons whose night-time activities aren't fully legal. Once such individual leads Aldo and his companion a chase through the city until they reach Michelangelo’s statue of David, at the base of which lies a corpse, posed as if crucified. When a further body turns up the next day, Aldo realises there's more to this than meets the eye.
Soon, Aldo and his associate Strocci are deep in a mystery which includes the merchants of the city, the church and the de Medici family. What is it that links the murders and what is the meaning of the positioning of the bodies? Once again, the author has woven together a complex, yet plausible series of events which unfold nicely, while developing the characters fans of the series have come to enjoy. And again, the city of Florence appears as a colourful, aromatic and noisy backdrop.
Readers of the series will be glad to know that familiar characters appear in this book, as well as a few new ones. Aldo's relationship with Saul continues, despite fate getting in the way. The pitiful Bindi, segretario of the Otto, continues to be, well, Bindi. Strocchi, now a Captain, but beset by doubts about the job, and desperate to keep his family safe, continues to be at Aldo's side. The complex relationship between him and Aldo still delights, as they strive to balance frustrations with friendship.
There's a very nice thread, concerning the Contessa Valetine Coltello, who, despite the death of her husband, continues to act as spymaster for Venice, and whose verbal and mental sparring with Aldo is a delight to watch. Her affect on Aldo is surprising, and hints at more events to follow. The final denouement might or might not come as a surprise to diehard fans, but it doesn't matter. Aldo has seen through the lies, the sleight-of-hand and the red-herrings and on the way has realised what it is that makes his life interesting. The final pages of the book certainly set up a whole new direction for him, and I cannot wait to see where the next book finds him.
"A Divine Fury" gets top marks from me, and I definitely recommend it to fans of the series and of historical thrillers.
Fans of the Ceaser Aldo series are going to love this
It's Autumn 1539, and some eighteen months have passed since the events of "Ritual of Fire". Cesare Aldo has returned from the wilderness, and is back in Florence, albeit still as a constable and on permanent night patrol. A curfew is in force, so his work mainly involves picking up drunks and other persons whose night-time activities aren't fully legal. Once such individual leads Aldo and his companion a chase through the city until they reach Michelangelo’s statue of David, at the base of which lies a corpse, posed as if crucified. When a further body turns up the next day, Aldo realises there's more to this than meets the eye.
Soon, Aldo and his associate Strocci are deep in a mystery which includes the merchants of the city, the church and the de Medici family. What is it that links the murders and what is the meaning of the positioning of the bodies? Once again, the author has woven together a complex, yet plausible series of events which unfold nicely, while developing the characters fans of the series have come to enjoy. And again, the city of Florence appears as a colourful, aromatic and noisy backdrop.
Readers of the series will be glad to know that familiar characters appear in this book, as well as a few new ones. Aldo's relationship with Saul continues, despite fate getting in the way. The pitiful Bindi, segretario of the Otto, continues to be, well, Bindi. Strocchi, now a Captain, but beset by doubts about the job, and desperate to keep his family safe, continues to be at Aldo's side. The complex relationship between him and Aldo still delights, as they strive to balance frustrations with friendship.
There's a very nice thread, concerning the Contessa Valetine Coltello, who, despite the death of her husband, continues to act as spymaster for Venice, and whose verbal and mental sparring with Aldo is a delight to watch. Her affect on Aldo is surprising, and hints at more events to follow. The final denouement might or might not come as a surprise to diehard fans, but it doesn't matter. Aldo has seen through the lies, the sleight-of-hand and the red-herrings and on the way has realised what it is that makes his life interesting. The final pages of the book certainly set up a whole new direction for him, and I cannot wait to see where the next book finds him.
"A Divine Fury" gets top marks from me, and I definitely recommend it to fans of the series and of historical thrillers.
Fans of the Ceaser Aldo series are going to love this
November 30, 2024
A Divine Fury is the fourth book in the Cesare Aldo series, and is fast becoming one of my new favourite historical mysteries. The mystery is complex and well-plotted, the descriptions of the time period are detailed and rich, and the character development is top notch. Every book adds a new layer to the complex political system of the 16th century and all the rivalries and intrigues that existed during that time period. This is Florence, just a couple of years after Catherine de Medici left for France to begin her reign, so the aftermath of those political struggles were still affecting Florence.
This one was great at demonstrating the subtle political struggles between the church and state. Cosimo de Medici is firmly establishing his rule, with Aldo caught in the crosshairs of these struggles, finally doing what he is so great at doing, unlocking puzzles. I loved the fine line Aldo had to take while investigating, first to keep himself safe from harm, but most importantly, protecting his comrades from any fallout that might occur. The subtle intrigues going on were fascinating although I couldn’t imagine living my life at the whims of someone else all the time.
Both the character development and the plot were great, and although I did figure out the culprit, it certainly didn’t detract from the tension or the struggles. And there were definitely some surprises along the way. I still think the relationship between Aldo and Strocci remains a highlight of this series, a friendship that is full of struggle, and frustrations, as they navigate the difficult demands of the Otto. There was also an intriguing subplot in this book that I loved, one that will continue in future books so I don’t want to give anything away, but made me excited for the direction in which future books will go.
A Divine Fury was not the strongest book of the series, but still had great character development and I felt the plot was being developed to set up future books for some major changes in Aldo’s fate. This meant that the plot was somewhat more predictable than usual and I didn’t quite believe in the culprit’s motivations for doing what they did. There was also less tension than usual. However, the descriptions of the time period were still rich and detailed, and I was happy to submerge myself in Aldo’s world yet again. I am definitely looking forward to the next book and seeing what happens as Aldo’s path changes yet again.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This one was great at demonstrating the subtle political struggles between the church and state. Cosimo de Medici is firmly establishing his rule, with Aldo caught in the crosshairs of these struggles, finally doing what he is so great at doing, unlocking puzzles. I loved the fine line Aldo had to take while investigating, first to keep himself safe from harm, but most importantly, protecting his comrades from any fallout that might occur. The subtle intrigues going on were fascinating although I couldn’t imagine living my life at the whims of someone else all the time.
Both the character development and the plot were great, and although I did figure out the culprit, it certainly didn’t detract from the tension or the struggles. And there were definitely some surprises along the way. I still think the relationship between Aldo and Strocci remains a highlight of this series, a friendship that is full of struggle, and frustrations, as they navigate the difficult demands of the Otto. There was also an intriguing subplot in this book that I loved, one that will continue in future books so I don’t want to give anything away, but made me excited for the direction in which future books will go.
A Divine Fury was not the strongest book of the series, but still had great character development and I felt the plot was being developed to set up future books for some major changes in Aldo’s fate. This meant that the plot was somewhat more predictable than usual and I didn’t quite believe in the culprit’s motivations for doing what they did. There was also less tension than usual. However, the descriptions of the time period were still rich and detailed, and I was happy to submerge myself in Aldo’s world yet again. I am definitely looking forward to the next book and seeing what happens as Aldo’s path changes yet again.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 7, 2024
Discover the locations in the novel here
This really is one of the most interesting, detailed and atmospheric series of historical fiction I have ever read. I look so forward to the next in the series and I remember the time I first read book one. It’s one of my favourite book memories.
Anyway, I digress. I came to A Divine Fury with such excitement! I was not disappointed whatsoever.
This is a novel that grabs you into its pages and sticks you at the heart of Florence, a city under lockdown with curfews and rules. We are in 1539 and I’m still feeling the heat of the Florence sun from the last book ‘Ritual of Fire’/ Bit less hot this time around, but no less sweaty with all the tension. Cesare Aldo is back in the city, mopping up the drunks and the reprobates.
What I loved about this book is that we go to the heart of the city. The crime scene is none other than the Michelangelo’s statue of David. There’s a body at its base, posed as if crucified. The next day, there’s another body. That’s when things get really interesting. The fact the first body was found at such an iconic and cultural structure gave this novel a unique set up from the start.
A Divine Fury is a great way to discover a new side of the city and of Cesare Aldo. This is a city of merchants and the infamous Medici family. Oh the layers of this Florence onion! So much rich detail, a novel with a perfectly pitched pace and characters that honestly feel so real and close to you.
As with the other novels, there is a key puzzle at its heart. I love the insights we get into Cesare Aldo and how his mind works. I love his relationship with Strocchi and could imagine having a beer with them both in one of the Florence inns. We would sit and chat whilst the noise and colour of Florence swirls around outside. I would hope that Contessa Valetine Coltello walked in too – the banter between her and Aldo is a delight!
I felt warm reading this book – something to be savoured. The ending was a nice surprise that I am still thinking about. Aldo is at a crossroads now I feel – come on David – next book please as I can’t wait!
September 23, 2024
A detective novel full of intrigues set in renaissance Florence
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A Divine Fury by D. V. Bishop is the 4th novel in the Cesare Aldo series about an investigator in Florence during the Renaissance. Having to deal with the politics of the day both civil and the church.
In, A Divine Fury Akso is working on night patrol chasing a suspect when he discovers a body, killed and displayed in a way that may mean it is more than a normal murder.
Once again D.V. Bishop brings the world of Florence in the 1530’s alive with Aldo, an investigator that as a member of The LGBT community has to live his personal life in the shadows.
As a reader I feel that yes this is classed as an LGBT novel due to the main character, however while it does have an effect on Aldo’s actions in the novel it never takes over the whole story, which is nice to see in novels let alone those set in historical time periods.
As for the mystery it self with an engaging list of characters both in the clergy and in the lay population of Florence the story is well balanced in the politics of the time period,
As it does have an effect on the investigation in ways that add to the enjoyment and mystery of the puzzle along with D.V. Bishops writing style..
With Aldo even getting involved in the espionage and the political aspects of the setting and time period, while this was only touched on lightly it does give D.V. Bishop a chance to grow the series.
This leads to the question cand A Divine Fury be read as a stand alone or does the reader need to have read the previous books in the Cesare Aldo series.
While the novels do follow on from one to the other, the individual novels can be read in any order as D.V. Bishop is very good at telling new readers what has happened before if it is relevant to the story (also helps readers who have read all the previous books),
Just be aware that there may be spoilers in the later novels from earlier ones and some plot lines go from one book to the next, Allowing readers to read the series in any order.
All this Makes A Divine Fury by D. V. Bishop is a perfect read for those who enjoy historical mysteries that take full advantage of the time period they are set in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A Divine Fury by D. V. Bishop is the 4th novel in the Cesare Aldo series about an investigator in Florence during the Renaissance. Having to deal with the politics of the day both civil and the church.
In, A Divine Fury Akso is working on night patrol chasing a suspect when he discovers a body, killed and displayed in a way that may mean it is more than a normal murder.
Once again D.V. Bishop brings the world of Florence in the 1530’s alive with Aldo, an investigator that as a member of The LGBT community has to live his personal life in the shadows.
As a reader I feel that yes this is classed as an LGBT novel due to the main character, however while it does have an effect on Aldo’s actions in the novel it never takes over the whole story, which is nice to see in novels let alone those set in historical time periods.
As for the mystery it self with an engaging list of characters both in the clergy and in the lay population of Florence the story is well balanced in the politics of the time period,
As it does have an effect on the investigation in ways that add to the enjoyment and mystery of the puzzle along with D.V. Bishops writing style..
With Aldo even getting involved in the espionage and the political aspects of the setting and time period, while this was only touched on lightly it does give D.V. Bishop a chance to grow the series.
This leads to the question cand A Divine Fury be read as a stand alone or does the reader need to have read the previous books in the Cesare Aldo series.
While the novels do follow on from one to the other, the individual novels can be read in any order as D.V. Bishop is very good at telling new readers what has happened before if it is relevant to the story (also helps readers who have read all the previous books),
Just be aware that there may be spoilers in the later novels from earlier ones and some plot lines go from one book to the next, Allowing readers to read the series in any order.
All this Makes A Divine Fury by D. V. Bishop is a perfect read for those who enjoy historical mysteries that take full advantage of the time period they are set in.
August 14, 2024
This fourth adventure for Cesare Aldo in 16th century Florence was a totally brilliant read.
Aldo has been reduced to the rank of constable and is on continuous night duty after really upsetting his boss Bindi. While patrolling the streets, he discovers a body laid out as if it wss Christ himself. The murder is swiftly followed by a second one that follows the same pattern Aldo manages to get himself attached to the investigation.
It’s interesting to see Strochi take the lead in an investigation and Aldo is forced to take a secondary role which is something that he finds impossible. Things become tense between the two of them until they work out a way to make this new partnership work. I loved seeing how they carried out their investigations and the restrictions that the church’s involvement caused them.
The historical detail as always is excellent and I love the religious and political intrigue, Most of the characters are morally grey as that is what is needed to survive in this city where the Medici rule and everyone is looking to take advantage of any situation. We see again exactly just how powerful the Catholic church at that time was and the element of exorcism was brilliantly shown especially the fear that this created.
I love all of D V Bishop’s characters. Cesare Aldo is the central figure and he is one of my favourite historical protagonists. He will do everything that it takes to solve a crime and bring the criminal to justice. We see a little more of his personal life as well as the effect that he can have on strangers. I really enjoyed the introduction of the Contessa and her meetings with Aldo were some of my favourite parts of the novel. I hope that she continues to feature in any future novels.
I really loved this mystery and stayed up until gone midnight to finish the book. It is the fourth book in the series but I do think that it would probably work as a stand alone. However, I would definitely recommend if you haven’t read the previous books, that you go back and read them as they are all brilliant.
Aldo has been reduced to the rank of constable and is on continuous night duty after really upsetting his boss Bindi. While patrolling the streets, he discovers a body laid out as if it wss Christ himself. The murder is swiftly followed by a second one that follows the same pattern Aldo manages to get himself attached to the investigation.
It’s interesting to see Strochi take the lead in an investigation and Aldo is forced to take a secondary role which is something that he finds impossible. Things become tense between the two of them until they work out a way to make this new partnership work. I loved seeing how they carried out their investigations and the restrictions that the church’s involvement caused them.
The historical detail as always is excellent and I love the religious and political intrigue, Most of the characters are morally grey as that is what is needed to survive in this city where the Medici rule and everyone is looking to take advantage of any situation. We see again exactly just how powerful the Catholic church at that time was and the element of exorcism was brilliantly shown especially the fear that this created.
I love all of D V Bishop’s characters. Cesare Aldo is the central figure and he is one of my favourite historical protagonists. He will do everything that it takes to solve a crime and bring the criminal to justice. We see a little more of his personal life as well as the effect that he can have on strangers. I really enjoyed the introduction of the Contessa and her meetings with Aldo were some of my favourite parts of the novel. I hope that she continues to feature in any future novels.
I really loved this mystery and stayed up until gone midnight to finish the book. It is the fourth book in the series but I do think that it would probably work as a stand alone. However, I would definitely recommend if you haven’t read the previous books, that you go back and read them as they are all brilliant.
February 22, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
I imagine I’m not the only person who has read/will read this series in a desperate effort to fill the void left by the absence of CJ Sansom’s Shardlake series. I’m pleased to say that it does just that! Having discovered that I was picking up a series at book 4 I was skeptic all that I was going to find any interest in the characters, and I’ll admit that they didn’t feel as fleshed out as I’d like, but I did engage entirely with them. Given that, for the average reader of the series, they’ll have experienced 3 more stories, I would say that these characters are totally formed, engaging and entertaining. The addition of some new characters seems to have kept the book fresh as well.
Initially, I found the shift in character focus to be a little jarring, but as you progress through the book these do become very seamless and your brain forgets to notice: a sure fire way to tell that something is done well. The story and situation, as well as the historical context was easy to adapt to and understand even if you hadn’t read the novel’s predecessors.
I did feel as though some of the sexual content was a little superfluous and gratuitous lip service to the mainstream but I really enjoy the modern issues such as homosexuality and diversity being seamlessly thread through this piece of historical fiction. The integration of accuracy with universal thematic concepts was really refreshing, without banging it over your head.
In terms of the plot, I did predict the ending and felt as though, for a mystery, our suspect pool was limited from the off. Whilst still enjoyable, it did dampen the tension a little. When the final killer was revealed, I can’t say I was entirely convinced/clear on his motive but it remained believable nonetheless.
It is safe to say that I have a new series to delve into and enjoy in place of the much loved and seemingly finished Shardlake series.
I imagine I’m not the only person who has read/will read this series in a desperate effort to fill the void left by the absence of CJ Sansom’s Shardlake series. I’m pleased to say that it does just that! Having discovered that I was picking up a series at book 4 I was skeptic all that I was going to find any interest in the characters, and I’ll admit that they didn’t feel as fleshed out as I’d like, but I did engage entirely with them. Given that, for the average reader of the series, they’ll have experienced 3 more stories, I would say that these characters are totally formed, engaging and entertaining. The addition of some new characters seems to have kept the book fresh as well.
Initially, I found the shift in character focus to be a little jarring, but as you progress through the book these do become very seamless and your brain forgets to notice: a sure fire way to tell that something is done well. The story and situation, as well as the historical context was easy to adapt to and understand even if you hadn’t read the novel’s predecessors.
I did feel as though some of the sexual content was a little superfluous and gratuitous lip service to the mainstream but I really enjoy the modern issues such as homosexuality and diversity being seamlessly thread through this piece of historical fiction. The integration of accuracy with universal thematic concepts was really refreshing, without banging it over your head.
In terms of the plot, I did predict the ending and felt as though, for a mystery, our suspect pool was limited from the off. Whilst still enjoyable, it did dampen the tension a little. When the final killer was revealed, I can’t say I was entirely convinced/clear on his motive but it remained believable nonetheless.
It is safe to say that I have a new series to delve into and enjoy in place of the much loved and seemingly finished Shardlake series.
June 23, 2024
A Divine Fury is the fourth book in DV Bishop’s historical crime series set in 16th century Florence. As with all the volumes in this series, it could possibly be read as a stand alone. But this is a series best tackled in order ad the characters developing from book to book and there are usually some call backs to previous volumes.
A Divine Fury opens one year after the events of Ritual of Fire. Cesare Aldo has been allowed back into the city but is stuck on night patrol. When he finds a body he sees the investigation as a chance to get himself reinstated as an investigator. He is joined with old colleague Carlo Strochhi and the two are given only a short time to find the killer. But before they have made inroads a second body is found. At the same time Aldo is commissioned by Cosimo Medici to ingratiate himself with a Venetian spy, who is herself having issues with her masters who believe a man would do a better job.
The mystery element of A Divine Fury is not particularly complex but it is not really the point. Of more interest is Bishop’s evocation of the setting and his focus on the way in which Aldo and Strocchi go about their investigation. In particular the constraints put on them due to the influence and power of the church, particularly as it starts to emerge that one of their suspects is a priest. Aldo and Strochhi themselves are great central characters with interesting histories and complex personal lives who continue to grow and develop.
A Divine Fury is another great entry in a consistently high quality historical crime series. Bishop brings 16th Century Florence to life and uses his crime and espionage plots to explore social, political and religious aspects of the time. By the end of the book Aldo, particularly is in a new place, opening interesting opportunities if the series continues.
A Divine Fury opens one year after the events of Ritual of Fire. Cesare Aldo has been allowed back into the city but is stuck on night patrol. When he finds a body he sees the investigation as a chance to get himself reinstated as an investigator. He is joined with old colleague Carlo Strochhi and the two are given only a short time to find the killer. But before they have made inroads a second body is found. At the same time Aldo is commissioned by Cosimo Medici to ingratiate himself with a Venetian spy, who is herself having issues with her masters who believe a man would do a better job.
The mystery element of A Divine Fury is not particularly complex but it is not really the point. Of more interest is Bishop’s evocation of the setting and his focus on the way in which Aldo and Strocchi go about their investigation. In particular the constraints put on them due to the influence and power of the church, particularly as it starts to emerge that one of their suspects is a priest. Aldo and Strochhi themselves are great central characters with interesting histories and complex personal lives who continue to grow and develop.
A Divine Fury is another great entry in a consistently high quality historical crime series. Bishop brings 16th Century Florence to life and uses his crime and espionage plots to explore social, political and religious aspects of the time. By the end of the book Aldo, particularly is in a new place, opening interesting opportunities if the series continues.
June 4, 2024
DV Bishop once again returns us to Renaissance Italy, and Florence, with his latest well researched blend of fact and fiction with his vibrant, captivating historical mystery series featuring former criminal court officer, Cesare Aldo. It is more than a year later after the events from the previous book, 1539, a Florence operating under the young Duke de Cosimo, a time of curfews, cconflicts, and city states, when the Church wields immense power and influence. Aldo has returned from exile, serving as a constant night constable amidst the streets overflowing with roaming dangerous individuals, illegality, and drunks.
One particular night chase sees Aldo coming across a dead body at the base of Michelangelo's statue of David, appearing to be crucified. A slew of familiar characters return, including Saul, the Jewish doctor, Bindi from the criminal court, the struggling and fearful Carlo Strocchi with all the demands of a family, as Aldo investigates a complex mystery with more bodies turning up, whilst the Duke has another task for him. There is intrigue, a spying Contessa whose interactions with Aldo are a fabulous joy to glimpse. Perhaps aspects of the plot is a trifle too obvious, but I would have to say this is still an engaging and gripping addition to the series.
Bishop is wonderful in the sense of location he imparts, making this period of historical Florence come alive, I appreciated how he creates and develops his characters and the themes he chooses to focus on, and look forward with great anticipation to the next book in the series. A great historical series that I think will appeal to a wide range of readers. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
One particular night chase sees Aldo coming across a dead body at the base of Michelangelo's statue of David, appearing to be crucified. A slew of familiar characters return, including Saul, the Jewish doctor, Bindi from the criminal court, the struggling and fearful Carlo Strocchi with all the demands of a family, as Aldo investigates a complex mystery with more bodies turning up, whilst the Duke has another task for him. There is intrigue, a spying Contessa whose interactions with Aldo are a fabulous joy to glimpse. Perhaps aspects of the plot is a trifle too obvious, but I would have to say this is still an engaging and gripping addition to the series.
Bishop is wonderful in the sense of location he imparts, making this period of historical Florence come alive, I appreciated how he creates and develops his characters and the themes he chooses to focus on, and look forward with great anticipation to the next book in the series. A great historical series that I think will appeal to a wide range of readers. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
June 3, 2024
A Divine Fury by D V Bishop
Having read the previous 3 novels in this series I was eagerly anticipating another outing for Cesare Aldo. Having been forced to carry out night duty for the last 18 months Aldo is desperate to escape the tedium of the night watch and return to his investigative role. Then one night, after curfew, whilst chasing a person breaking the curfew Cesare comes across a body which has been murdered and then placed in the position of Christ on the cross.
The book reveals the power of the church in the Medici Florence of 1539. Those who stray from the norm are submitted to the priests who attempt to drive out their evil spirits through exorcism; but this can have a terrible impact upon the victim.
The author evokes the sights, smells and the sounds of Florence during the Renaissance period. We are immersed in a society of city states which are constantly spying upon one another and a population who are all in awe of the church. The description of Aldo’s meeting with the scheming Contessa was wonderful and it would be interesting to see what the Contessa gets up to in the next book.
Meanwhile Strocchi is coping with living with a young child and a wife who is suffering from terrible sickness due to her next pregnancy. Fortunately his mother arrives to ease the burden. The story is gripping, well written and an entertaining read for those new to Aldo and or for those who have encountered him before. I will be recommending this to my various book groups and would like to thank the author, the publishers and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in return for an honest review.
Having read the previous 3 novels in this series I was eagerly anticipating another outing for Cesare Aldo. Having been forced to carry out night duty for the last 18 months Aldo is desperate to escape the tedium of the night watch and return to his investigative role. Then one night, after curfew, whilst chasing a person breaking the curfew Cesare comes across a body which has been murdered and then placed in the position of Christ on the cross.
The book reveals the power of the church in the Medici Florence of 1539. Those who stray from the norm are submitted to the priests who attempt to drive out their evil spirits through exorcism; but this can have a terrible impact upon the victim.
The author evokes the sights, smells and the sounds of Florence during the Renaissance period. We are immersed in a society of city states which are constantly spying upon one another and a population who are all in awe of the church. The description of Aldo’s meeting with the scheming Contessa was wonderful and it would be interesting to see what the Contessa gets up to in the next book.
Meanwhile Strocchi is coping with living with a young child and a wife who is suffering from terrible sickness due to her next pregnancy. Fortunately his mother arrives to ease the burden. The story is gripping, well written and an entertaining read for those new to Aldo and or for those who have encountered him before. I will be recommending this to my various book groups and would like to thank the author, the publishers and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in return for an honest review.
April 26, 2024
This is the 4th book in DV Bishop's hugely enjoyable historical crime thrillers, set in de Medici Florence. One of the things I really enjoy about these books is how well the author conjures up the sights, smells and sounds of Renaissance Florence, and how cleverly he integrates us into a very different society with very different morals, ways of living and fears. This is a city that lives under the eyes of the church, under curfew, ruled by a Duke who himself is constantly on the look out for enemies, in an Italy not united but fragmented into city states. The research is so beautifully woven in that it never feels out of place but as if Bishop is describing a place and time he himself inhabits.
The book opens with Aldo, the protagonist of the series, demoted to constable and placed on never ending night watch arresting curfew breakers until a mysterious murder sees his old assistant, Strocchi, now an officer in his place, requesting his help. The change in dynamic isn't easy for either man, especially when the Duke requests Aldo's help with another matter entirely, one unconnected to his work with the Otto, the law-enforcing arm of Florentine law.
I didn't find the mystery itself quite as compelling as previous books, but enjoyed the character development, the new characters and the interplay between Aldo and his unpleasant boss Bindi, and with a glamorous, intelligent Contessa who is playing Aldo as much as he is playing her...
Dark, twisty and a lot of fun. Recommended.
The book opens with Aldo, the protagonist of the series, demoted to constable and placed on never ending night watch arresting curfew breakers until a mysterious murder sees his old assistant, Strocchi, now an officer in his place, requesting his help. The change in dynamic isn't easy for either man, especially when the Duke requests Aldo's help with another matter entirely, one unconnected to his work with the Otto, the law-enforcing arm of Florentine law.
I didn't find the mystery itself quite as compelling as previous books, but enjoyed the character development, the new characters and the interplay between Aldo and his unpleasant boss Bindi, and with a glamorous, intelligent Contessa who is playing Aldo as much as he is playing her...
Dark, twisty and a lot of fun. Recommended.
December 16, 2024
This review was originally posted on Queen's Book Asylum!
I received an eARC from PanMacmillan via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Here we go, my fourth review in the Cesare Aldo series this year. Wait a minute, what do you mean I have to wait a YEAR for the next one? What the hell am I supposed to do with myself until then?! I’d like to speak to the manager, please, this Queen is very displeased and that won’t do.
*Ahem*
So, I’ve been on a Cesare Aldo binge this year, as you might have noticed, and with each book, I’ve become increasingly more obsessed with the series. I read an ARC for A Divine Fury, but I still need to stress that you totally should get the audiobook versions (too) of these books. Seriously.
The year is 1539, Aldo is finally back in Florence, although he is stuck with night patrol duties while Strocchi is becoming one of the best investigators the Otto has. Obviously, Aldo is not happy with his status and so he is determined to become an officer once again. Finding a dead body next to the David statue in a position like Jesus on the cross, seem to provide that opportunity. While Strocchi and Aldo work on the case that’s becoming more and more tangled, they also work on their friendship. They still need to build up the trust lost between them, which is not easy as Aldo tends to follow his own ideas rather than follow instructions. On top of it all, Strocchi is also struggling with his role within the Otto. His strong sense of justice and his idealistic view of keeping the law clash with the reality of politics and a secretary who only cares about his own power and status. On one hand, the money he earns as an officer helps to provide for his growing family, but on the other, he feels trapped in a job that doesn’t meet with his morals and ideals. Which is pretty relatable, if you think about it. I like how these characters we’ve been following so far grow and evolve with each book.
“Strocchi grabbed Aldo’s arm. ‘What are you doing?’
‘Have I ever led you astray before?’
‘Frequently.’
Then you should be used to it by now,’ Aldo said with a smile.
‘This isn’t funny.’
‘Trust me, Carlo.'”
In A Divine Fury, Aldo and Strocchi investigate a series of murders that seemingly has no connection with each other, except for the way the bodies are treated – they are positioned like Jesus on the cross, their tongue is cut in half, and they appear to be strangled with something beaded. They also have ash on their forehead and a piece of paper in their pockets that seems to be from the book of an exorcist. One would say they investigate, in short, a serial murder case, but 1) the term is not known yet in this age and 2) technically you need 3 murders to be counted as a serial murder and there are only 2 here. Plus one and an attempt. Anyway. The only thing Aldo and Strocchi have to go with are the names of their victims – Zamora, a wealthy wool merchant who is well-liked in Florence, and Freccia, a thief who also used to sell his body, whom Aldo knows all too well as an officer.
This time we don’t know the killer or the motive, so we investigate along with Aldo and Strocchi, which I always find exciting, because I love collecting the clues and trying to figure out what happened. I mean, I read murder mysteries for a reason, duh. Bishop provides us with a couple of possible suspects, and handles them really well as I kept guessing until the reveal, because every time I thought “Okay, I think it was this person”, new information came up and made me doubt myself (damn you, Bishop for making me doubt myself, how very dare!).
As it happens with mystery books, we get a range of new side characters. First we have Father Negri, the exorcist, who has pretty, uh, “interesting” views on how the devil works and how demons appear to possess queer people (they are not called as such, of course, given the fact that the term wasn’t in use in the 16th century), and how an exorcism can make them change their ways. Which is pretty much an early version of conversion therapy and we all know how well that tends to go… Little surprise that he is not the most liked priest in town. Let’s take Vanni, who works in a tannery together with Freccia’s wife, who lost her brother not longer after Negri’s exorcism. And who is determined to go to anyone who might listen to her to complain about him and his church. There is also Father Zati, Negri’s assistant, who changed places quite a few times in the past, and whom we met already in The Darkest Sin, even if only fleetingly. I love how Bishop used events in that book to incorporate in Zati’s plotline. That was very smartly done, just as I love how Rebecca from City of Vengeance is still around, proving to be an intelligent and independent young woman. I really hope we’ll see more of her in the future.
And then, let’s say a few words about my new favorite character in this series – Contessa Coltello, who married a Venetian merchant, who was sent to Florence as a spy. Not that he himself did much spying, but you know how it is in male-dominated worlds – there is no way a woman could do a 100 times better job than an old privileged man. Obviously. And so when Venice has a new spymaster, the Contessa is facing the problem of being replaced. I was literally giddy with excitement to see what she’d figure out to literally hand the new guy his balls. It didn’t quite go as I hoped, but I shall give her credit for being smart about the whole business. I think that was probably my only disappointment with A Divine Fury. I wish I’d never have bigger problems, really. That said, I very much look forward to her future interactions with Aldo, because damn, those were highly entertaining.
I’m starting to feel like D. V. Bishop is unable to go wrong with this series, and A Divine Fury is another example of an excellent historical mystery novel. Please just hook me up and inject any further Cesare Aldo novels directly into my veins, because that’s how much I love them. Mr Bishop, if you ever find yourself in need of a beta reader, please remember me. Sincerely, an impatient fan who needs the next book right about now. *slinks off to wallow in despair until next time*
I received an eARC from PanMacmillan via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
"'That is correct,' Testardo said. 'I've dealt with Aldo before. He is an irksome, self-satisfied creature, but he also has a talent for finding truth that others prefer to ignore.'
Aldo suppressed a smile. That qualified as praise from Testardo."
Here we go, my fourth review in the Cesare Aldo series this year. Wait a minute, what do you mean I have to wait a YEAR for the next one? What the hell am I supposed to do with myself until then?! I’d like to speak to the manager, please, this Queen is very displeased and that won’t do.
*Ahem*
So, I’ve been on a Cesare Aldo binge this year, as you might have noticed, and with each book, I’ve become increasingly more obsessed with the series. I read an ARC for A Divine Fury, but I still need to stress that you totally should get the audiobook versions (too) of these books. Seriously.
The year is 1539, Aldo is finally back in Florence, although he is stuck with night patrol duties while Strocchi is becoming one of the best investigators the Otto has. Obviously, Aldo is not happy with his status and so he is determined to become an officer once again. Finding a dead body next to the David statue in a position like Jesus on the cross, seem to provide that opportunity. While Strocchi and Aldo work on the case that’s becoming more and more tangled, they also work on their friendship. They still need to build up the trust lost between them, which is not easy as Aldo tends to follow his own ideas rather than follow instructions. On top of it all, Strocchi is also struggling with his role within the Otto. His strong sense of justice and his idealistic view of keeping the law clash with the reality of politics and a secretary who only cares about his own power and status. On one hand, the money he earns as an officer helps to provide for his growing family, but on the other, he feels trapped in a job that doesn’t meet with his morals and ideals. Which is pretty relatable, if you think about it. I like how these characters we’ve been following so far grow and evolve with each book.
“Strocchi grabbed Aldo’s arm. ‘What are you doing?’
‘Have I ever led you astray before?’
‘Frequently.’
Then you should be used to it by now,’ Aldo said with a smile.
‘This isn’t funny.’
‘Trust me, Carlo.'”
In A Divine Fury, Aldo and Strocchi investigate a series of murders that seemingly has no connection with each other, except for the way the bodies are treated – they are positioned like Jesus on the cross, their tongue is cut in half, and they appear to be strangled with something beaded. They also have ash on their forehead and a piece of paper in their pockets that seems to be from the book of an exorcist. One would say they investigate, in short, a serial murder case, but 1) the term is not known yet in this age and 2) technically you need 3 murders to be counted as a serial murder and there are only 2 here. Plus one and an attempt. Anyway. The only thing Aldo and Strocchi have to go with are the names of their victims – Zamora, a wealthy wool merchant who is well-liked in Florence, and Freccia, a thief who also used to sell his body, whom Aldo knows all too well as an officer.
This time we don’t know the killer or the motive, so we investigate along with Aldo and Strocchi, which I always find exciting, because I love collecting the clues and trying to figure out what happened. I mean, I read murder mysteries for a reason, duh. Bishop provides us with a couple of possible suspects, and handles them really well as I kept guessing until the reveal, because every time I thought “Okay, I think it was this person”, new information came up and made me doubt myself (damn you, Bishop for making me doubt myself, how very dare!).
As it happens with mystery books, we get a range of new side characters. First we have Father Negri, the exorcist, who has pretty, uh, “interesting” views on how the devil works and how demons appear to possess queer people (they are not called as such, of course, given the fact that the term wasn’t in use in the 16th century), and how an exorcism can make them change their ways. Which is pretty much an early version of conversion therapy and we all know how well that tends to go… Little surprise that he is not the most liked priest in town. Let’s take Vanni, who works in a tannery together with Freccia’s wife, who lost her brother not longer after Negri’s exorcism. And who is determined to go to anyone who might listen to her to complain about him and his church. There is also Father Zati, Negri’s assistant, who changed places quite a few times in the past, and whom we met already in The Darkest Sin, even if only fleetingly. I love how Bishop used events in that book to incorporate in Zati’s plotline. That was very smartly done, just as I love how Rebecca from City of Vengeance is still around, proving to be an intelligent and independent young woman. I really hope we’ll see more of her in the future.
And then, let’s say a few words about my new favorite character in this series – Contessa Coltello, who married a Venetian merchant, who was sent to Florence as a spy. Not that he himself did much spying, but you know how it is in male-dominated worlds – there is no way a woman could do a 100 times better job than an old privileged man. Obviously. And so when Venice has a new spymaster, the Contessa is facing the problem of being replaced. I was literally giddy with excitement to see what she’d figure out to literally hand the new guy his balls. It didn’t quite go as I hoped, but I shall give her credit for being smart about the whole business. I think that was probably my only disappointment with A Divine Fury. I wish I’d never have bigger problems, really. That said, I very much look forward to her future interactions with Aldo, because damn, those were highly entertaining.
I’m starting to feel like D. V. Bishop is unable to go wrong with this series, and A Divine Fury is another example of an excellent historical mystery novel. Please just hook me up and inject any further Cesare Aldo novels directly into my veins, because that’s how much I love them. Mr Bishop, if you ever find yourself in need of a beta reader, please remember me. Sincerely, an impatient fan who needs the next book right about now. *slinks off to wallow in despair until next time*
October 5, 2024
Cesare Aldo has been tasked with night patrol for many months now by secretario Bindi because of a past conflict. But during one of his patrols, he finds a corpse in a public piazza pointing to the church and the victim had his tongue cut in two. Together with Carlo Strocchi, he must find the killer of this businessman who seemed to have a taste of men. After a day, all evidence points to an exorcist but they must act quickly because on another piazza a new body is found.
In this fourth book 'A divine fury', Cesare and Carlo must work together again to find a religious serial killer. This is the most complex case they've had to deal with. Bishop really writes an interesting mystery with lots of subplots. Whereas in the previous three books I always managed to guess the killer, now I had my doubts until the end. That's why I believe this is the best book in the series so far.
Besides the murder mystery, we keep reading about Carlo and Aldo's private lives, their conflicts with Bindi, and this time Cesare is asked by Duke Cosimo himself to approach a Venetian spy. This makes for a highly entertaining mystery novel. This series is getting better and better. And I hope there will be a next book!
If you want to start reading about Aldo and Strocchi I suggest to start with City of vengeance.
Dutch review:
Cesare Aldo moet 's nachts patrouilleren omdat zijn overste Bindi hem nog steeds wil straffen voor een voorgaande zaak. Maar tijdens zo'n patrouille vindt hij een lijk dat op een religieuze manier lijkt te zijn neergelegd. Samen met Carlo Strocchi moet hij de moordenaar van deze zakenman die op mannen viel zien te vinden. En dan blijkt alles naar een exorcist te wijzen die ze niet kunnen ondervragen. En voor ze het weten vinden ze een tweede slachtoffer.
In dit vierde boek moeten Cesare en Carlo weer als vanouds samenwerken om deze seriemoordenaar te vinden. Het is één van de meest complexe zaken waar ze al mee te maken hadden. Bishop schrijft echt een interessant mysterie met veel subplotten. Waar ik in de vorige drie boeken steeds de moordenaar wist aan te duiden, bleef ik nu gokken tot op het einde. Om die reden vond ik dit ook het beste boek uit de reeks.
Daarnaast blijven we lezen over Carlo en Aldo hun privéleven, hun conflicten met Bindi en wordt Cesare deze keer door Duke Cosimo himself gevraagd om een spion te benaderen. En dat draagt allemaal bij tot een historisch mysterie met veel lagen. En tot een reeks die ik met het boek nog liever begin te lezen. Aanrader! En ik hoop dat er een volgend boek komt!
In this fourth book 'A divine fury', Cesare and Carlo must work together again to find a religious serial killer. This is the most complex case they've had to deal with. Bishop really writes an interesting mystery with lots of subplots. Whereas in the previous three books I always managed to guess the killer, now I had my doubts until the end. That's why I believe this is the best book in the series so far.
Besides the murder mystery, we keep reading about Carlo and Aldo's private lives, their conflicts with Bindi, and this time Cesare is asked by Duke Cosimo himself to approach a Venetian spy. This makes for a highly entertaining mystery novel. This series is getting better and better. And I hope there will be a next book!
If you want to start reading about Aldo and Strocchi I suggest to start with City of vengeance.
Dutch review:
Cesare Aldo moet 's nachts patrouilleren omdat zijn overste Bindi hem nog steeds wil straffen voor een voorgaande zaak. Maar tijdens zo'n patrouille vindt hij een lijk dat op een religieuze manier lijkt te zijn neergelegd. Samen met Carlo Strocchi moet hij de moordenaar van deze zakenman die op mannen viel zien te vinden. En dan blijkt alles naar een exorcist te wijzen die ze niet kunnen ondervragen. En voor ze het weten vinden ze een tweede slachtoffer.
In dit vierde boek moeten Cesare en Carlo weer als vanouds samenwerken om deze seriemoordenaar te vinden. Het is één van de meest complexe zaken waar ze al mee te maken hadden. Bishop schrijft echt een interessant mysterie met veel subplotten. Waar ik in de vorige drie boeken steeds de moordenaar wist aan te duiden, bleef ik nu gokken tot op het einde. Om die reden vond ik dit ook het beste boek uit de reeks.
Daarnaast blijven we lezen over Carlo en Aldo hun privéleven, hun conflicten met Bindi en wordt Cesare deze keer door Duke Cosimo himself gevraagd om een spion te benaderen. En dat draagt allemaal bij tot een historisch mysterie met veel lagen. En tot een reeks die ik met het boek nog liever begin te lezen. Aanrader! En ik hoop dat er een volgend boek komt!
June 13, 2024
DV Bishop has managed, once again, to create one of the best murder mysteries I´ve read.
Set in Florence, 1540, this time, Aldo is back to town busy with his night patrols, when a corpse is discovered in the middle of a piazza. Strocchi is the official in charge of the investigation and Aldo (still a constable) should help him find the murderer. Once again, there are religious (and slightly political) themes in the story.
I got to say that this is the 4th book in a series and I´ve read the previous ones (probably that´s why I was so hyped up for this one: If you´re looking for a good thriller with an accurate historical background, this one´s for you). And I´d say, for context, it´s better you read these books in order. But still, they can be enjoyed as standalones, since in each book there´s a different crime to solve.
As for this novel in particular, I´d say it´s my favorite along with The Darkest Sin. Maybe I like it too much when one (or several) suspects are members of the church and we can learn how much power the church had in those times.
I won´t say anymore not to spoil who wants to read, but I didn´t guess who the killer was (good sign here, if you ask me: it means the murder plot is able to surprise you).
So yes, 100% recommended. I hope we have more Aldo for a very long while... :D
Set in Florence, 1540, this time, Aldo is back to town busy with his night patrols, when a corpse is discovered in the middle of a piazza. Strocchi is the official in charge of the investigation and Aldo (still a constable) should help him find the murderer. Once again, there are religious (and slightly political) themes in the story.
I got to say that this is the 4th book in a series and I´ve read the previous ones (probably that´s why I was so hyped up for this one: If you´re looking for a good thriller with an accurate historical background, this one´s for you). And I´d say, for context, it´s better you read these books in order. But still, they can be enjoyed as standalones, since in each book there´s a different crime to solve.
As for this novel in particular, I´d say it´s my favorite along with The Darkest Sin. Maybe I like it too much when one (or several) suspects are members of the church and we can learn how much power the church had in those times.
I won´t say anymore not to spoil who wants to read, but I didn´t guess who the killer was (good sign here, if you ask me: it means the murder plot is able to surprise you).
So yes, 100% recommended. I hope we have more Aldo for a very long while... :D
September 22, 2024
This is the fourth book in a series featuring Cesare Aldo. It works well as a standalone, but there is a lot of character development over the previous books which you miss if you haven’t read them.
D V Bishop creates Renaissance Florence and Italy to perfection. It was a country divided and regions were constantly under threat and the atmosphere of suspicion and intrigue is captured so well. I’ve never been to Florence, but reading these books has given me a sense of the opulence of the buildings, the narrow streets and the smells and taste of a city as it was over 500 years ago.
Aldo has returned after a period of exile but has been severely demoted to night patrol. An arduous and dangerous job in the dark streets when there’s danger at every corner. Needless to say he becomes involved with murder and we see the Aldo we’ve grown to love apply his knowledge and intellect, along with some cunning, to resolve the situation. For me, this is historical crime fiction at its best. I trust the research to be complex and comprehensive, and the period detail is sewn into every story seamlessly. There’s a real feel for the era and political connivings. Really enjoyed this and there are enough twists to keep the reader guessing.
D V Bishop creates Renaissance Florence and Italy to perfection. It was a country divided and regions were constantly under threat and the atmosphere of suspicion and intrigue is captured so well. I’ve never been to Florence, but reading these books has given me a sense of the opulence of the buildings, the narrow streets and the smells and taste of a city as it was over 500 years ago.
Aldo has returned after a period of exile but has been severely demoted to night patrol. An arduous and dangerous job in the dark streets when there’s danger at every corner. Needless to say he becomes involved with murder and we see the Aldo we’ve grown to love apply his knowledge and intellect, along with some cunning, to resolve the situation. For me, this is historical crime fiction at its best. I trust the research to be complex and comprehensive, and the period detail is sewn into every story seamlessly. There’s a real feel for the era and political connivings. Really enjoyed this and there are enough twists to keep the reader guessing.
December 22, 2025
Cesare Aldo returns in the 4th instalment from D.V. Bishop and A Divine Fury has everything you would want from a historical thriller.
Bishop really captures the atmosphere of Renaissance Florence while taking the reader on a rip-roaring, action-packed journey through the cities streets.
Once again, there is an engaging, thrilling plot throwing religion, politics, money, desire, and many other possible motives into the melting pot.
The character of Aldo is just what every crime reader loves, the principal investigator - a maverick, charismatic, intelligent, likeable individual continuously butting heads with his obnoxious, incompetent superior. As with all heroes, he has his flaws and is a tormented soul, but I particularly like the way Bishop has been brave enough to write Aldo as a gay male, living in the 1500s. It gives a different dimension to the character and storyline.
My only slight issue with A Divine Fury was that I didn't feel Bishop had introduced enough potential suspects into the mix. It didn't spoil my enjoyment, but as someone who likes to try and work it out as I go along, it meant I had kind of worked out whodunnit long before the reveal.
I'm definitely intrigued to see where Aldo goes from here, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Bishop really captures the atmosphere of Renaissance Florence while taking the reader on a rip-roaring, action-packed journey through the cities streets.
Once again, there is an engaging, thrilling plot throwing religion, politics, money, desire, and many other possible motives into the melting pot.
The character of Aldo is just what every crime reader loves, the principal investigator - a maverick, charismatic, intelligent, likeable individual continuously butting heads with his obnoxious, incompetent superior. As with all heroes, he has his flaws and is a tormented soul, but I particularly like the way Bishop has been brave enough to write Aldo as a gay male, living in the 1500s. It gives a different dimension to the character and storyline.
My only slight issue with A Divine Fury was that I didn't feel Bishop had introduced enough potential suspects into the mix. It didn't spoil my enjoyment, but as someone who likes to try and work it out as I go along, it meant I had kind of worked out whodunnit long before the reveal.
I'm definitely intrigued to see where Aldo goes from here, and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
March 16, 2024
I was thrilled to get my hands on A Divine Fury, the fourth in the Cesare Aldo series. As a massive fan of historical fiction, these books are my happy place.
Aldo is back in Florence, stoic after being banished for a while & then demoted by the incompetent Bindi. He & his faithful sidekick, Stocchi, are soon up to their necks in what appear to be ritual killings. Add in a mysterious Contessa, spies & the usual filth & poverty and the scene is set.
I was a bit disappointed that the story didn’t focus on Aldo as much as the previous novels. I missed finding out more about him & his life. If anything, it felt like Stocchi was promoted to the fore whilst Aldo retreated to the shadows for a while. This series has been compared to the Shardlake books, and for good reason, the characters are the centre of the story, with intrigue & murder thrown in for good measure.
Saying that, I still enjoyed the book & the descriptions of Florence are vivid & well written. I’m looking forward to seeing what Aldo gets up to next.
Aldo is back in Florence, stoic after being banished for a while & then demoted by the incompetent Bindi. He & his faithful sidekick, Stocchi, are soon up to their necks in what appear to be ritual killings. Add in a mysterious Contessa, spies & the usual filth & poverty and the scene is set.
I was a bit disappointed that the story didn’t focus on Aldo as much as the previous novels. I missed finding out more about him & his life. If anything, it felt like Stocchi was promoted to the fore whilst Aldo retreated to the shadows for a while. This series has been compared to the Shardlake books, and for good reason, the characters are the centre of the story, with intrigue & murder thrown in for good measure.
Saying that, I still enjoyed the book & the descriptions of Florence are vivid & well written. I’m looking forward to seeing what Aldo gets up to next.
March 25, 2024
Cesare Aldo is back in Florence. In this fourth book of the series, he has been assigned to the night watch but is desperately trying to get back to proper detecting. When a body is discovered in one of the piazzas, he joins forces with Strocchi to bring the guilty to justice. His investigation brings him into conflict with the Florentine church. In addition, Cosimo Medici also has plans for Aldo.
I enjoy the historical aspect of this series. Fifteenth century Florence is brought to life in vivid detail. With the earlier books, I found them slow to get into but there was usually excitement and an upping of the pace towards the end. With this book I felt it fell a bit flat. The story was not engrossing and the characters didn't engage as well as in previous books. Strocchi was a much stronger character than Aldo in this book. For me Aldo seemed rather two dimensional.
It was a reasonably entertaining read but I hope for better from the next book in the series.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
I enjoy the historical aspect of this series. Fifteenth century Florence is brought to life in vivid detail. With the earlier books, I found them slow to get into but there was usually excitement and an upping of the pace towards the end. With this book I felt it fell a bit flat. The story was not engrossing and the characters didn't engage as well as in previous books. Strocchi was a much stronger character than Aldo in this book. For me Aldo seemed rather two dimensional.
It was a reasonably entertaining read but I hope for better from the next book in the series.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
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