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The Assassin of Venice
Valentina Riccardi is many beautiful, cultured, deadly. As one of Venice’s famous courtesans, she’s perfectly positioned to seduce powerful men, get them alone, and assassinate them. Spies. Traitors. Who they are doesn’t matter—only that they made an enemy of the Council of Ten, the shadowy and seemingly omniscient power from which Valentina takes her orders without question.
Venice is her home, and after losing everything once before to an invading army, there's nothing she won’t do to protect her city, for there's nothing she loves more.
Almost nothing.
She vowed to never fall in love again, but Valentina can’t help but give her heart to Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. But when Bastiano starts asking the wrong questions, Valentina receives a new kill him.
Yet the more Valentina learns about the Council of Ten, the more she wonders if they're truly acting in the interest of the Venetian state or if they're using her for their own dark ambitions. If Valentina is to save Bastiano, she must untangle their conspiracy—with the help of her fellow courtesans—before it’s too late.
The Assassin of Venice is a captivating, sensual novel that brings 16th-century Venice to life and draws on the fascinating real history of both Venetian cortigiane oneste—“honest courtesans”—and Renaissance Venice’s sprawling intelligence service.
Venice is her home, and after losing everything once before to an invading army, there's nothing she won’t do to protect her city, for there's nothing she loves more.
Almost nothing.
She vowed to never fall in love again, but Valentina can’t help but give her heart to Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. But when Bastiano starts asking the wrong questions, Valentina receives a new kill him.
Yet the more Valentina learns about the Council of Ten, the more she wonders if they're truly acting in the interest of the Venetian state or if they're using her for their own dark ambitions. If Valentina is to save Bastiano, she must untangle their conspiracy—with the help of her fellow courtesans—before it’s too late.
The Assassin of Venice is a captivating, sensual novel that brings 16th-century Venice to life and draws on the fascinating real history of both Venetian cortigiane oneste—“honest courtesans”—and Renaissance Venice’s sprawling intelligence service.
Audible Audio
First published June 18, 2024
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About the author
Alyssa Palombo
6 books478 followersMy name is Alyssa Palombo, and I am a writer living and working in Buffalo, NY. I attended Canisius College in Buffalo, where I majored in English and creative writing with a minor in music. I’m a classically trained mezzo-soprano who also dabbles in playing piano. When not writing, I can usually be found reading, hanging out and laughing way too hard at nonsensical inside jokes with friends, traveling (or dreaming of my next travel destination), at a concert, or planning for next Halloween. I’m a metalhead and a self-proclaimed French fry connoisseur. I also own way too many hoodies, pairs of sunglasses, and pajamas, but never enough books.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
I am the author of four historical novels, The Violinist of Venice, The Most Beautiful Woman in Florence, The Spellbook of Katrina Van Tassel, and The Borgia Confessions, all from St. Martin’s Griffin, as well as the contemporary novel Heavy Metal Symphony under the name A.K. Palombo. My next novel, The Assassin of Venice, is forthcoming in 2024 from Crooked Lane Books. I am represented by Sam Farkas of Jill Grinberg Literary Management.
You can find me on Twitter and Instagram at @AlyssInWnderlnd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
June 16, 2024
Valentina Riccardi may be one of Venice’s most famous courtesans, but she’s also deadly. Having lost everything to an invading army, she’s got nothing to lose, so when she’s approached with a plot to seduce powerful men and assassinate them, she agrees. All in a day’s work, right?! In her eyes, anyone who is a enemy of the Council of Ten is an enemy of hers…almost anyone.
When Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin and love interest, appears on her kill list, Valentina needs to rely on her fellow ‘cortigiane oneste’ to reduce the power of the governing body of Venice. Can she rely on her network? Will she be forced to make a choice? What about her safety and that of her beloved Bastiano?
I came for the cover, but stayed for the author’s ability to bring 16th-century Venice to life! Her examination of the honest courtesans and the intelligence gathering in Venice was spectacular. I was riveted with this exploration of the clandestine extracurricular activities of a Venetian courtesan. Renaissance Venice was rife with political tension and this paranoid political climate was the perfect backdrop for a perfectly placed woman to covertly collect and coax information from influential clients. I’m always in awe of Palombo’s historical fiction and although this one was a little darker, bloodier and sexier than I was expecting, it was a riveting read into the ‘what if’ and featured fabulous twists.
Congratulations on a spectacular cover, Lynn Andreozzi. I was initially drawn to a cover with a front view of a character - so rare now in cover design! When I read the book and went back to the cover, I could see the dagger, the stance and stare, and the ‘V’ for Valentina on her bodice!
Trigger warnings: murder/violent death, war-related violence, death of parents, death of loved ones, brief mentions of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault.
I was gifted this copy by Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
When Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin and love interest, appears on her kill list, Valentina needs to rely on her fellow ‘cortigiane oneste’ to reduce the power of the governing body of Venice. Can she rely on her network? Will she be forced to make a choice? What about her safety and that of her beloved Bastiano?
I came for the cover, but stayed for the author’s ability to bring 16th-century Venice to life! Her examination of the honest courtesans and the intelligence gathering in Venice was spectacular. I was riveted with this exploration of the clandestine extracurricular activities of a Venetian courtesan. Renaissance Venice was rife with political tension and this paranoid political climate was the perfect backdrop for a perfectly placed woman to covertly collect and coax information from influential clients. I’m always in awe of Palombo’s historical fiction and although this one was a little darker, bloodier and sexier than I was expecting, it was a riveting read into the ‘what if’ and featured fabulous twists.
Congratulations on a spectacular cover, Lynn Andreozzi. I was initially drawn to a cover with a front view of a character - so rare now in cover design! When I read the book and went back to the cover, I could see the dagger, the stance and stare, and the ‘V’ for Valentina on her bodice!
Trigger warnings: murder/violent death, war-related violence, death of parents, death of loved ones, brief mentions of sexual assault and attempted sexual assault.
I was gifted this copy by Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 1, 2024
Narrated by Nicol Zanzarella
Presented by Dreamscape Media
Exceptional!
This was such great fun!
Valentina is a courtesan, but also happens to be an assassin. She loves what she does and she's good at it, too. But her next assignment leaves her questioning everything.
Man, I was HOOKED! The narrator drew me straight in, had me onside with Valentina and Bastiano instantly, and listening to things unfold was so entertaining.
Valentina is a fantastic leading lady - she's confident without being arrogant, and she's competent. She enjoys what she does and feels no shame, and she creates meaningful connections - it's not all about seduction and manipulation (though there's plenty of that, too). She's easy to root for, and the narrator did such a fantastic job of bringing her to life.
The story is full of intrigue, with plenty to keep you hanging on. Her life as a courtesan is interesting enough, before adding in everything else! There's never a dull moment and the characters do well to hold the story strong.
The Venetian setting is delightful and well crafted, and the historical aspect adds a real romanticism to everything. I loved the time I spent in this world - it was truly fascinating.
Absolute props to the narrator - was not bored for a second. She brought the characters to life, distinguished everyone so well, while somehow conveying the different levels of wealth through voice alone. Masterfully performed and I would happily listen to this narrator any day.
Immensely enjoyed this one, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more from this author AND narrator.
With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC
Presented by Dreamscape Media
Exceptional!
This was such great fun!
Valentina is a courtesan, but also happens to be an assassin. She loves what she does and she's good at it, too. But her next assignment leaves her questioning everything.
Man, I was HOOKED! The narrator drew me straight in, had me onside with Valentina and Bastiano instantly, and listening to things unfold was so entertaining.
Valentina is a fantastic leading lady - she's confident without being arrogant, and she's competent. She enjoys what she does and feels no shame, and she creates meaningful connections - it's not all about seduction and manipulation (though there's plenty of that, too). She's easy to root for, and the narrator did such a fantastic job of bringing her to life.
The story is full of intrigue, with plenty to keep you hanging on. Her life as a courtesan is interesting enough, before adding in everything else! There's never a dull moment and the characters do well to hold the story strong.
The Venetian setting is delightful and well crafted, and the historical aspect adds a real romanticism to everything. I loved the time I spent in this world - it was truly fascinating.
Absolute props to the narrator - was not bored for a second. She brought the characters to life, distinguished everyone so well, while somehow conveying the different levels of wealth through voice alone. Masterfully performed and I would happily listen to this narrator any day.
Immensely enjoyed this one, and I'll be keeping an eye out for more from this author AND narrator.
With thanks to NetGalley for an audio ARC
March 15, 2024
Luscious, luscious, luscious. I held my breath for the entirety of this gorgeous and thrilling book.
September 28, 2024
Wasn't too sure where I was going to shelve this one.
Mystery, murder, historical fiction, romance?
All the above.
I loved this book!
Valentina is a force to be reckoned with, deeply hurt from the past.
Yet she has a conscience, and does what she has to, to survive and protect those she loves at any cost.
I loved the time period, the setting/plot, the characters, the historical description of the city.
The plot here of "Who to trust?" "who is really the bad guy?" staying one step ahead...to keep your head!
This book had me eagerly turning pages, not only to find out how Valentina will get through this, but will she have a happy ever after?
No dull moments at anytime while reading this one!
I look forward to reading this authors other books!
Highly recommend!
Mystery, murder, historical fiction, romance?
All the above.
I loved this book!
Valentina is a force to be reckoned with, deeply hurt from the past.
Yet she has a conscience, and does what she has to, to survive and protect those she loves at any cost.
I loved the time period, the setting/plot, the characters, the historical description of the city.
The plot here of "Who to trust?" "who is really the bad guy?" staying one step ahead...to keep your head!
This book had me eagerly turning pages, not only to find out how Valentina will get through this, but will she have a happy ever after?
No dull moments at anytime while reading this one!
I look forward to reading this authors other books!
Highly recommend!
July 24, 2024
A solid fun summer read. I enjoyed it but can’t say I was dying to flip the pages. But, don't get me wrong, it was a lot of fun and the backdrop of Venice was awesome! I have never read a historical romance/mystery like this. I would reach for one of her books again for sure.
June 18, 2024
A seductive, dark, and romantic mystery read filled with murder and secrets set in 16th century Venice, what more could you really want?
Binged this in a day and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to whatever this author does next.
Tysm Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
Binged this in a day and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to whatever this author does next.
Tysm Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
July 2, 2025
Lush and immersive, this historical story about a fictional courtesan/spy will leave you salivating for more — fast-paced, romantic, and incredibly swoon-worthy being set in renaissance Venice. I loved it!!
June 27, 2024
3.5 stars
I love when books are set in Venice because it’s one of my favorite European cities. In The Assassin of Venice, the author does a great job of richly capturing its historical details. We follow Valentina who is both a courtesan and an assassin. Both of these trades help her navigate the complex political landscape of Venice. As the story unfolds, she starts to question where her orders are coming from and the motives behind the targets she's given. The explanations she is being given just aren’t adding up.
I enjoyed the romance between Valentina and Bastiano and seeing glimpses of her relationships with her clients. However, this was quite a predictable read with no major surprises. The characters are a bit flat but the story was engaging enough that I could look past that. Overall, I did enjoy the book but it was nothing amazing.
I love when books are set in Venice because it’s one of my favorite European cities. In The Assassin of Venice, the author does a great job of richly capturing its historical details. We follow Valentina who is both a courtesan and an assassin. Both of these trades help her navigate the complex political landscape of Venice. As the story unfolds, she starts to question where her orders are coming from and the motives behind the targets she's given. The explanations she is being given just aren’t adding up.
I enjoyed the romance between Valentina and Bastiano and seeing glimpses of her relationships with her clients. However, this was quite a predictable read with no major surprises. The characters are a bit flat but the story was engaging enough that I could look past that. Overall, I did enjoy the book but it was nothing amazing.
February 1, 2024
I love this book. Valentina is a force to be reckoned with. A true bad ass! I love how she was able to get into the politics of venice in a very entertaining way.
January 9, 2025
Surprising, sexy, and sharp as a dagger's blade, THE ASSASSIN OF VENICE plunges deep into the shadows of Venice's Council of Ten and imagines a blood-drenched world where professional courtesans did its bidding—but only on their own terms. Valentina's fearsome cleverness took my breath away.
July 7, 2024
"Had this been any other time, had there been less at stake, I would have commented acidly on the fact that men seemed low on creativity when it came to insulting women. "Bitch" and "whore" were all they were ever able to come up with, and as I cheerfully acknowledged being both, it was rather less than insulting". **mic drop**
This was such a cool historical fiction read. I loved how badass the lead character was, and I enjoyed the story. I loved the feminist take and it was just so interesting. There was so much at stake and I really didn't know how this book was going to end. Also, the narrator was amazing for this book. I could seriously listen to her read me my grocery list.
Thank you Netgalley for sharing a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
This was such a cool historical fiction read. I loved how badass the lead character was, and I enjoyed the story. I loved the feminist take and it was just so interesting. There was so much at stake and I really didn't know how this book was going to end. Also, the narrator was amazing for this book. I could seriously listen to her read me my grocery list.
Thank you Netgalley for sharing a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
June 10, 2025
This book was neither fish nor fowl for me. Is it a romance, or Historical Fiction? While set in the 1500's and featuring a top tier courtesan -- there are a lot of explicit sexy time scenes. That was fine for me, but some might find it objectionable.
What I found hard to square was this courtesan and a proficient assassin. Scenes bounced back and forth between killing people, then bedding her clients, and one main squeeze.
The narration was good in the audiobook version. For me the story was too disjointed and pretty unbelievable at times.
What I found hard to square was this courtesan and a proficient assassin. Scenes bounced back and forth between killing people, then bedding her clients, and one main squeeze.
The narration was good in the audiobook version. For me the story was too disjointed and pretty unbelievable at times.
March 1, 2024
Rating: ★★★★½
Rounded to five stars.
From the outset, the premise of this book had me hooked, and it didn't disappoint.
The prose exudes sultriness and satisfaction. Not much else to say - the language was complex, perfectly suited to the genre of historical fiction, and it made the read that much more enjoyable. In The Assassin of Venice, we also find a strong female protagonist in Valentina Riccardi - while she was savage, determined, resourceful, and extremely intelligent, she never shied away from vulnerability and showing love to the people in her life who deserved it. She stole my heart, completely and utterly. I see in her a concrete resilience I have not seen since Jude Duarte. The ensemble cast of characters is equally captivating - Ambrogio, Bastiano, and Amalia were amongst my favorites, though Valentina is unquestionably the character I adore the most.
Another thing I enjoyed about this story is its social commentary and parallels it draws. The political intrigue is masterfully woven into the narrative, adding layers upon layers of complexity and depth that call for further reflection. I also appreciated the candid exploration of Valentina's profession, and how it avoided romanticizing or glorifying the work that she did, instead shedding light on all the realities that she encountered.
The seamless integration of before and after chapters felt organic and essential to the plot's progression also.
Most of the relationship dynamics are beautifully crafted, adding richness to the narrative. Valentina's relationships with Ambrogio and Amalia were my favorites to read about, but every single dynamic does the characters justice. The romantic relationship portrayed between Valentina and Bastiano has both a palpable chemistry and a tenderness that tugs at the heartstrings. You cannot help but to root for them.
While the ending felt slightly abrupt, I must say I wished for extended scenes to further develop certain relationships, this book is still one that will certainly stay with me. Nonetheless, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an enthralling tale filled with intrigue, passion, and unforgettable characters.
Rounded to five stars.
From the outset, the premise of this book had me hooked, and it didn't disappoint.
The prose exudes sultriness and satisfaction. Not much else to say - the language was complex, perfectly suited to the genre of historical fiction, and it made the read that much more enjoyable. In The Assassin of Venice, we also find a strong female protagonist in Valentina Riccardi - while she was savage, determined, resourceful, and extremely intelligent, she never shied away from vulnerability and showing love to the people in her life who deserved it. She stole my heart, completely and utterly. I see in her a concrete resilience I have not seen since Jude Duarte. The ensemble cast of characters is equally captivating - Ambrogio, Bastiano, and Amalia were amongst my favorites, though Valentina is unquestionably the character I adore the most.
Another thing I enjoyed about this story is its social commentary and parallels it draws. The political intrigue is masterfully woven into the narrative, adding layers upon layers of complexity and depth that call for further reflection. I also appreciated the candid exploration of Valentina's profession, and how it avoided romanticizing or glorifying the work that she did, instead shedding light on all the realities that she encountered.
The seamless integration of before and after chapters felt organic and essential to the plot's progression also.
Most of the relationship dynamics are beautifully crafted, adding richness to the narrative. Valentina's relationships with Ambrogio and Amalia were my favorites to read about, but every single dynamic does the characters justice. The romantic relationship portrayed between Valentina and Bastiano has both a palpable chemistry and a tenderness that tugs at the heartstrings. You cannot help but to root for them.
While the ending felt slightly abrupt, I must say I wished for extended scenes to further develop certain relationships, this book is still one that will certainly stay with me. Nonetheless, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an enthralling tale filled with intrigue, passion, and unforgettable characters.
June 12, 2024
Narrated by Nicol Zanzarella
Genre: historical fiction
Venice, 1538
Valentina is one of the famous courtesans of Venice. She collects secrets and works for the Council of Ten - a subset of the Venetian Senate responsible for protecting Venice from foreign influence - and does their bidding as an assassin. She's taken their orders without question, but the deathbed confession of one of her targets makes her wonder if her orders are as meaningful as she'd once thought.
I don't pick up as much historical fiction anymore (preferring my guaranteed HEA in a historical romance), but 1538 Venice caught my eye. I've long been a fan of the famous Venetian Courtesans (The Honest Courtesan, which was some of the research material for Palombo was a favorite nonfiction of mine 20ish years ago), and the political machinations of the powerful of Venice of the 16th century are uniquely situated for a plot like this.
While this isn’t a historical romance, it’s both romantic and open door. Valentina is a businesswoman first and foremost, and her trade is her body, but she’s unabashed in her experience of pleasure. The book is written from Valentina’s perspective, and Palombo gives her a strong narrative voice where it’s easy to see Valentina’s motivations and emotions. She distinguishes the intimate scenes where Valentina is with her lover Bastino and those with her clients showing Valentina’s emotional engagement, sometimes her affection and friendship, and sometimes her detachment through the physical intimacy.
For the historical romance reader - this is romantic but not a romance. That said, it has a satisfying ending, and I was pleased with the conflict resolution, which I thought might be nearly impossible to pull off. Palombo builds a gorgeous world of Renaissance Venice with a network of strong female friendships among courtesans and perhaps a love for which Valentina is willing to risk it all.
I picked this book up on a whim from NetGalley, and I’m really glad I did. Thank you to Dreamscape Media for the ALC for review. The Assassin of Venice is out 6/18/24.
Genre: historical fiction
Venice, 1538
Valentina is one of the famous courtesans of Venice. She collects secrets and works for the Council of Ten - a subset of the Venetian Senate responsible for protecting Venice from foreign influence - and does their bidding as an assassin. She's taken their orders without question, but the deathbed confession of one of her targets makes her wonder if her orders are as meaningful as she'd once thought.
I don't pick up as much historical fiction anymore (preferring my guaranteed HEA in a historical romance), but 1538 Venice caught my eye. I've long been a fan of the famous Venetian Courtesans (The Honest Courtesan, which was some of the research material for Palombo was a favorite nonfiction of mine 20ish years ago), and the political machinations of the powerful of Venice of the 16th century are uniquely situated for a plot like this.
While this isn’t a historical romance, it’s both romantic and open door. Valentina is a businesswoman first and foremost, and her trade is her body, but she’s unabashed in her experience of pleasure. The book is written from Valentina’s perspective, and Palombo gives her a strong narrative voice where it’s easy to see Valentina’s motivations and emotions. She distinguishes the intimate scenes where Valentina is with her lover Bastino and those with her clients showing Valentina’s emotional engagement, sometimes her affection and friendship, and sometimes her detachment through the physical intimacy.
For the historical romance reader - this is romantic but not a romance. That said, it has a satisfying ending, and I was pleased with the conflict resolution, which I thought might be nearly impossible to pull off. Palombo builds a gorgeous world of Renaissance Venice with a network of strong female friendships among courtesans and perhaps a love for which Valentina is willing to risk it all.
I picked this book up on a whim from NetGalley, and I’m really glad I did. Thank you to Dreamscape Media for the ALC for review. The Assassin of Venice is out 6/18/24.
October 24, 2025
Actually, 2.5 stars
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice’s most famous courtesans. However, she has a secret. She is an assassin. Valentina quickly falls in love with a fellow assassin named Bastiano Bragadin. However, she has been given orders to assassinate him. Valentina is determined to save him. She also wants to explore the true motives of the Council of Ten, who has hired her to be an assassin and whom she directly reports to. Could the Council of Ten be acting for Venice or are they acting out of their own dark ambitions?
Valentina has all the makings to be a very fascinating character. She is beautiful, intelligent, and deadly. However, I found her to be a Mary Sue. She is perfect in every way. She has no flaws. She did not seem very realistic. Instead, she was a very paper-thin character. I had a hard time connecting with her. Because she had no depth, I was not really invested in her story. I did not care for her troubles. Therefore, Valentina had the potential to be a wonderful character, but sadly she was not well-written.
Overall, this book is about loyalty, secrets, and love. I found all of the characters to be flat and one-dimensional. The romance was undeveloped and was more instantaneous. There were also many explicit sexual scenes that were not well-written and were very off-putting. There was not much mystery or suspense in this novel. Nevertheless, it was a short and fast-paced read! I also thought that this book was meticulously researched, and I liked the setting of Renaissance Venice. I thought that. The Assassin of Venice had potential to be an exciting and wonderful book. However, Ms. Palombo just could not pull it off. I was very disappointed with it because it was very underwhelming and failed to meet my expectations. Nevertheless, this book may appeal to those that liked reading novels set in Renaissance Italy. This book may appeal to fans of Sarah Durant, Kate Quinn, and Marina Fiorato! However, this was a very mediocre and forgettable book and there are better books set in Renaissance Italy out there!
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice’s most famous courtesans. However, she has a secret. She is an assassin. Valentina quickly falls in love with a fellow assassin named Bastiano Bragadin. However, she has been given orders to assassinate him. Valentina is determined to save him. She also wants to explore the true motives of the Council of Ten, who has hired her to be an assassin and whom she directly reports to. Could the Council of Ten be acting for Venice or are they acting out of their own dark ambitions?
Valentina has all the makings to be a very fascinating character. She is beautiful, intelligent, and deadly. However, I found her to be a Mary Sue. She is perfect in every way. She has no flaws. She did not seem very realistic. Instead, she was a very paper-thin character. I had a hard time connecting with her. Because she had no depth, I was not really invested in her story. I did not care for her troubles. Therefore, Valentina had the potential to be a wonderful character, but sadly she was not well-written.
Overall, this book is about loyalty, secrets, and love. I found all of the characters to be flat and one-dimensional. The romance was undeveloped and was more instantaneous. There were also many explicit sexual scenes that were not well-written and were very off-putting. There was not much mystery or suspense in this novel. Nevertheless, it was a short and fast-paced read! I also thought that this book was meticulously researched, and I liked the setting of Renaissance Venice. I thought that. The Assassin of Venice had potential to be an exciting and wonderful book. However, Ms. Palombo just could not pull it off. I was very disappointed with it because it was very underwhelming and failed to meet my expectations. Nevertheless, this book may appeal to those that liked reading novels set in Renaissance Italy. This book may appeal to fans of Sarah Durant, Kate Quinn, and Marina Fiorato! However, this was a very mediocre and forgettable book and there are better books set in Renaissance Italy out there!
June 18, 2024
A thrilling, delicious, and intriguing historical novel with a mixed touch of politics, burning intimacy, and blades and poisons.
I already had a feeling that I'm gonna enjoy this novel, and I did, which was gratifying for my part.
The writing is delicate in woving its storyline chapter by chapter. It didn't also miss making the characters even more compelling and striking, especially Valentina.
Valentina's character is seductive in the most part of the story. She utilised her talents and abilities in satisfying levels, leaving the readers impressed, me specifically.
Malaesta, character, I admit was an enigma. I really expected that much of him, considering how he's characterized and shown in chapters with Valentina. I could say the same with the Ten. I just hope that the story did show more of the Ten than presenting them by telling in the story.
The same goes for Bastiano. Although I find him interesting at the beginning, I couldn't quite root for him for another reason rather than being a lover and the beloved of Valentina. He lacks the presence in the story. The story didn't really delve that much on him despite the potential of his character in the storyline.
The story also made me feel nostalgic, which made me look back to the series The Borgias and The Medici. I could quite feel the same tone and atmosphere of it here in the novel.
The conclusion was— I would say it was quite not I was expecting? I was expecting more from it, more of schemes and actions, perhaps.
Overall, this was still satisfying read. I enjoyed it a lot. Thank you, netgalley and the publisher, for the arc opportunity ♡
I already had a feeling that I'm gonna enjoy this novel, and I did, which was gratifying for my part.
The writing is delicate in woving its storyline chapter by chapter. It didn't also miss making the characters even more compelling and striking, especially Valentina.
Valentina's character is seductive in the most part of the story. She utilised her talents and abilities in satisfying levels, leaving the readers impressed, me specifically.
Malaesta, character, I admit was an enigma. I really expected that much of him, considering how he's characterized and shown in chapters with Valentina. I could say the same with the Ten. I just hope that the story did show more of the Ten than presenting them by telling in the story.
The same goes for Bastiano. Although I find him interesting at the beginning, I couldn't quite root for him for another reason rather than being a lover and the beloved of Valentina. He lacks the presence in the story. The story didn't really delve that much on him despite the potential of his character in the storyline.
The story also made me feel nostalgic, which made me look back to the series The Borgias and The Medici. I could quite feel the same tone and atmosphere of it here in the novel.
The conclusion was— I would say it was quite not I was expecting? I was expecting more from it, more of schemes and actions, perhaps.
Overall, this was still satisfying read. I enjoyed it a lot. Thank you, netgalley and the publisher, for the arc opportunity ♡
June 26, 2024
Assassins, politicians, 16th century Venice, sex-workers… this book has it all!
Valentina is a respected, wealthy, polished courtesan in Venice with many high profile clients, making her perfectly positioned to function as a dangerous assassin for The Ten and protect Venice from ever falling again. The only things she has to lose are her lover, Bastiano, and their daughter. And when positioned to choose one or the other, Valentina takes matters into her own hands.
As a fan of historical fiction, this novel was a fun journey into the historical landscape of 15th century Venice, though I would’ve enjoyed more scene-setting and detailing the landscape to feel truly immersed in the time period. The author notes at the end speak a bit about where fact meets fiction, and it was very interesting - I think worth noting at the on set - that the courtesans as assassins is the fiction that could maybe have been true, and what a fun concept!
I enjoyed the narrator, though I found the pace for the audio to be too slow. Admittedly, I generally like a faster pace and will listen to audio books at 1.5-2.0 speed, but this book I listened to at 2.0-2.5 due to the pacing.
I received this audio ARC from Dreamscape Media and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Valentina is a respected, wealthy, polished courtesan in Venice with many high profile clients, making her perfectly positioned to function as a dangerous assassin for The Ten and protect Venice from ever falling again. The only things she has to lose are her lover, Bastiano, and their daughter. And when positioned to choose one or the other, Valentina takes matters into her own hands.
As a fan of historical fiction, this novel was a fun journey into the historical landscape of 15th century Venice, though I would’ve enjoyed more scene-setting and detailing the landscape to feel truly immersed in the time period. The author notes at the end speak a bit about where fact meets fiction, and it was very interesting - I think worth noting at the on set - that the courtesans as assassins is the fiction that could maybe have been true, and what a fun concept!
I enjoyed the narrator, though I found the pace for the audio to be too slow. Admittedly, I generally like a faster pace and will listen to audio books at 1.5-2.0 speed, but this book I listened to at 2.0-2.5 due to the pacing.
I received this audio ARC from Dreamscape Media and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2025
Claro que lloro por el amor que sentí, esa sensación embriagadora y vertiginosa con la que el mundo parece un lugar más bonito. Lloro por no haberle entregado ese amor a alguien que lo mereciera.
No podemos elegir a quién amamos
La narración está hecha a través del personaje principal, Valentina Riccardi, una cortesana de Venecia en el Renacimiento.
Dentro de la trama, que se podría decir que es una mezcla de romance y suspense, en el sentido de que te tiene en vilo hasta averiguar qué ocurre al final, ya que la protagonista descubre que hay un traidor que no es lo que finge ser y además le ha amenazado con quitarle lo que más quiere, por lo que ella organiza un plan para salvar a los que ama pero no es tan fácil como parece.
Un dato que me ha parecido curioso es que, a pesar de ser ficción, la autora ha usado apellidos reales y conocidos de la Venecia del Renacimiento, además del Consejo de los Diez. También, dentro de esta trama, la protagonista hace algunos saltos en el tiempo para que conozcamos su pasado y me ha parecido interesante que tenga cierta conexión con ni más ni menos que Fernando Cortés.
Por último solo quiero añadir una cosa más y es que por supuesto que Bastiano Bragadin me ha enamorado.
No podemos elegir a quién amamos
La narración está hecha a través del personaje principal, Valentina Riccardi, una cortesana de Venecia en el Renacimiento.
Dentro de la trama, que se podría decir que es una mezcla de romance y suspense, en el sentido de que te tiene en vilo hasta averiguar qué ocurre al final, ya que la protagonista descubre que hay un traidor que no es lo que finge ser y además le ha amenazado con quitarle lo que más quiere, por lo que ella organiza un plan para salvar a los que ama pero no es tan fácil como parece.
Un dato que me ha parecido curioso es que, a pesar de ser ficción, la autora ha usado apellidos reales y conocidos de la Venecia del Renacimiento, además del Consejo de los Diez. También, dentro de esta trama, la protagonista hace algunos saltos en el tiempo para que conozcamos su pasado y me ha parecido interesante que tenga cierta conexión con ni más ni menos que Fernando Cortés.
Por último solo quiero añadir una cosa más y es que por supuesto que Bastiano Bragadin me ha enamorado.
July 15, 2024
Rarely do I find myself allied with a main character deplete of morals but this is so well written, I root for her to win often and found myself in for a wild ride. Loved every minute of it. The story was quite sufficiently told in description by the author to pique my interest so I shall not re summarize here. Just know I highly recommend this audiobook by this narrator with her accent makes this endearing , so perfect. Pick this one up for your summer read. It is intense!m. Special thanks to the following for allowing me to give a listen with giving my own honest opinions.
#NetGalley
#DreamscapeMedia
#AlyssaPalombo
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
#NetGalley
#DreamscapeMedia
#AlyssaPalombo
Publication Date: June 18, 2024
August 23, 2024
"Your mask may hide your face, and your cloak your figure, but neither hides your eyes. And your eyes are full of fire, a fire that drew me in as soon as I saw you. It is a fire I find I must warm myself by or perish of the cold."
- time skips to past and present, past that's not too interesting minus the chapter with the quote above
- yay feminism and killing evil men
- wished it was a bit longer or that the romance was a bit longer
- time skips to past and present, past that's not too interesting minus the chapter with the quote above
- yay feminism and killing evil men
- wished it was a bit longer or that the romance was a bit longer
July 29, 2024
One of the things I love about Alyssa’s stories (especially the ones set in Italy) is that I get to experience the country in the story (until I actually get to go there.) The research and details she incorporates make it so easy to imagine walking through Venice. I also love that it’s like a history lesson but with a whole lot of drama thrown in!
June 23, 2025
I enjoyed this one as I do all of palombos books. The writing style is easy and intriguing and I enjoyed the plot. Who wouldn’t? Mystery, intrigue, assassinations, espionage and courtesans. And of course the world of glamor in Venice in the 1500s. I flew through this one so fast, it was moderately predictable but I enjoyed it nonetheless
June 24, 2024
What a sexy, thrilling, murdery, binge-worthy read! I only wish it were longer so I could have spent more time in this rich and secretive world. Can someone please make this a movie!?
March 12, 2025
Sort of a thriller/romance about a 16th century courtesan/assassin who spends a bit of time in bed in her palazzo and on the arms of powerful men (when not in bed). Her role as secret assassin to the Venetian leadership was the best part of this story since it added plenty of political intrigue.
July 8, 2024
3.5/ 5
In The Assassin of Venice, Valentina Riccardi is a courtesan in Renaissance Venice who also works as a spy and assassin for the Venetian Council of Ten. Valentina is determined to protect Venice and ensure her daughter's future, but her loyalty is tested when she is ordered to kill the man she loves. With the help of her fellow courtesans, Valentina must uncover the truth and save her loved ones before it's too late.
In The Assassin of Venice, Valentina Riccardi is a courtesan in Renaissance Venice who also works as a spy and assassin for the Venetian Council of Ten. Valentina is determined to protect Venice and ensure her daughter's future, but her loyalty is tested when she is ordered to kill the man she loves. With the help of her fellow courtesans, Valentina must uncover the truth and save her loved ones before it's too late.
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March 31, 20244 stars ★★★★
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
This was a very quick and engaging read with an intriguing plot, some romance and a compelling main character. I love nothing more than strong and complex female characters so by default Valentina has become one of my favourites <3
Will definitely recommend to my fellow historical/mystery reader friends!
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc.
This was a very quick and engaging read with an intriguing plot, some romance and a compelling main character. I love nothing more than strong and complex female characters so by default Valentina has become one of my favourites <3
Will definitely recommend to my fellow historical/mystery reader friends!
August 5, 2024
Alyssa Palombo has a way of making the settings of her novels jump off the page, and The Assassin of Venice is no exception. You'll feel like you're right there in 16th century Venice as you read, which make this dramatic, seductive thriller all the more fun. The beautiful and dangerous Valentina won me over immediately, and the exploration of the era's politics and social mores was entertaining as well. And of course, as with any good thriller, there are some big surprises along the way. I definitely recommend this one for historical fiction lovers, especially those interested in the Italian Renaissance. Enjoy!
May 19, 2025
Fácil de leer por lo tanto es muy ameno. Pero me falla mucho esa manera de hablar de la prostitución todo el libro, está idealizada en todo momento como algo bueno y que las mujeres querían y como si todos los que pagarán por ello fueran hombres guapos, nobles, con los que disfrutaban... Entretenido para ver otra época de Venecia y ciertas partes de su historia.
September 8, 2024
Perfectly plotted. Also, wow, this author can make a sympathetic murderess. I’m not gonna lie: it’s a skill. 😂
June 17, 2024
The Assassin of Venice is the first book I've read by Alyssa Palombo. It's a historical mystery set in 1538 Venice. Usually I'm not particularly fond of books set in the Renaissance period, so color me surprised that I practically flew through this story. I suppose when the setting is the Renaissance, I can love the story when it involves courtesans, sex, love, violence and intrigue; it's actually right up my alley!
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice's famous courtesans in 1538. She's beautiful, charming and well-read. But unknown to most people, she's also a deadly assassin. Valentina receives her orders from the Council of Ten, a shadowy group who rules Venice. She loves her adoptive city, especially after losing all she held dear many years ago, so she follows her instructions without question. That is, until one assassination order makes her wonder if it is the wish of the Ten, or if one of the Ten has his own interests in mind. Valentina vows she will never love again, but yet she's fallen in love with Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. When Bastiano begins asking the wrong questions about a death, Valentina receives her next assignment: kill Bastiano. Will she be forced to kill the man she loves, or will her fellow cortigiane oneste - "honest courtesans" - be able to help her get to the heart of the conspiracy in time?
This may be the first historical mystery set in the Renaissance period that I've read. I expected an interesting story from the synopsis, but I was unprepared for the excitement and thrills I encountered. I ended up reading the majority of the story in a day; I was so happy I didn't have to leave the house today! At first I didn't know if I would care for Valentina Riccardi. She was a courtesan with many lovers, and had no compunction about being ordered to assassinate someone. She wasn't particularly warm and fuzzy. But something changed for me when I read the "Interludes" scattered throughout the book. I learned of the horrible loss in her past, and why she was willing to do all she could to keep Venice, the city that she loved, safe (including the assassination of those that threatened it). She had very close friendships with many of her fellow courtesans, especially Amalia. That Valentina had such a loving relationship with Bastiano surprised me at first. He wasn't a customer, just a man who loved her. How could that work out? It was a whole other world then, wasn't it? Bastiano was charming, funny, and apparently a man secure enough in his masculinity not to feel threatened by her paying customers. I loved their time together. They had a daughter, Ginevra, who lived with a loving couple that kept her safe and happy when her parents resided in Venice. Valentina had no trouble assassinating someone who threatened her beloved Venice; however, she began to doubt herself when it appeared her latest mission wasn't ordered by the Counsel of Ten, but rather by an individual more interested in his own lofty goals than that of Venice. When Bastiano was sent on a fact-finding mission by his father about possible treason in Venice, it was then Valentina was ordered to kill the man she loved. She refused, but the villain threatened the life of little Ginevra. I will not give away the rest of the story; I don't want to ruin the heartache, danger and excitement for you. I'm sure you will be sitting on the edge of your seat while you hold your breath like I was! I hope to read more historical mysteries by this talented author.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Valentina Riccardi is one of Venice's famous courtesans in 1538. She's beautiful, charming and well-read. But unknown to most people, she's also a deadly assassin. Valentina receives her orders from the Council of Ten, a shadowy group who rules Venice. She loves her adoptive city, especially after losing all she held dear many years ago, so she follows her instructions without question. That is, until one assassination order makes her wonder if it is the wish of the Ten, or if one of the Ten has his own interests in mind. Valentina vows she will never love again, but yet she's fallen in love with Bastiano Bragadin, a fellow assassin. When Bastiano begins asking the wrong questions about a death, Valentina receives her next assignment: kill Bastiano. Will she be forced to kill the man she loves, or will her fellow cortigiane oneste - "honest courtesans" - be able to help her get to the heart of the conspiracy in time?
This may be the first historical mystery set in the Renaissance period that I've read. I expected an interesting story from the synopsis, but I was unprepared for the excitement and thrills I encountered. I ended up reading the majority of the story in a day; I was so happy I didn't have to leave the house today! At first I didn't know if I would care for Valentina Riccardi. She was a courtesan with many lovers, and had no compunction about being ordered to assassinate someone. She wasn't particularly warm and fuzzy. But something changed for me when I read the "Interludes" scattered throughout the book. I learned of the horrible loss in her past, and why she was willing to do all she could to keep Venice, the city that she loved, safe (including the assassination of those that threatened it). She had very close friendships with many of her fellow courtesans, especially Amalia. That Valentina had such a loving relationship with Bastiano surprised me at first. He wasn't a customer, just a man who loved her. How could that work out? It was a whole other world then, wasn't it? Bastiano was charming, funny, and apparently a man secure enough in his masculinity not to feel threatened by her paying customers. I loved their time together. They had a daughter, Ginevra, who lived with a loving couple that kept her safe and happy when her parents resided in Venice. Valentina had no trouble assassinating someone who threatened her beloved Venice; however, she began to doubt herself when it appeared her latest mission wasn't ordered by the Counsel of Ten, but rather by an individual more interested in his own lofty goals than that of Venice. When Bastiano was sent on a fact-finding mission by his father about possible treason in Venice, it was then Valentina was ordered to kill the man she loved. She refused, but the villain threatened the life of little Ginevra. I will not give away the rest of the story; I don't want to ruin the heartache, danger and excitement for you. I'm sure you will be sitting on the edge of your seat while you hold your breath like I was! I hope to read more historical mysteries by this talented author.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
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