Vengeance in Venice

Silver and Grey #6

by Mary Lancaster

Even on their rapturous honeymoon, mystery intrudes…

Constance and Solomon are enchanted by Venice and each other when a street fight forces Solomon to intervene, and Constance is abducted by strangers.

Somehow, they have stumbled into a vicious feud and are forced to confront the seething aftermath of recent revolution, war and siege in the most serene city. But Angelo Savelli, the man responsible for Constance’s abduction is conducting a vendetta that is much more personal - and when he is murdered, Solomon and Constance are under suspicion.

Undeterred by the difficulties of language, culture, and the Austrian secret police, they undertake their own investigation into the dead man’s friends and enemies, with no idea of the lethal danger stalking them until it is almost too late.

When Constance is deliberately poisoned, they begin to realize it is a race against time to find the ruthless killer before he attacks again. After all they have faced together, could death part them so cruelly?

Tropes you'll
✔️ Married couple sleuths
✔️ Honeymoon romance interrupted
✔️ Kidnapping
✔️ Historical mystery
✔️ Vendetta
✔️ Murder investigation
✔️ Poisoning
✔️ Fish out of water
✔️ Romantic suspense
✔️ Race against time

Read in Kindle Unlimited!

Silver and Grey Series
Book 1 - Murder in Moonlight
Book 2 - Evidence of Evil
Book 3 - Ghost in the Garden
Book 4 - The Trick of the Treasure
Book 5 - Word of the Wicked
Book 6 – Vengeance in Venice
Book 7 – Death on the Doorstep
Book 8 – The Riddle of the Roses
Book 9 – Corpse in the Canal

Genres: Regency

254 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 25, 2025

About the author

Mary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.

Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.

Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
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Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
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Reviews

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Constance and Solomon are enchanted by Venice, where they are spending their honeymoon. Then one evening returning from the opera they see a man being beaten by four others, Solomon intervenes, and Constance is abducted by two strangers. Somehow, they have stumbled into a vicious feud and are forced to confront the seething aftermath of recent revolution, war and siege in the most serene city. But Angelo Savelli, the man responsible for Constance’s abduction is conducting a vendetta that is much more personal - and when he is murdered, Solomon and Constance are under suspicion. Then things get personal when Constance is poisoned.
The sixth book in this brilliant series & another page turner. I love both Solomon & Constance & love how their relationship has strengthened & deepened throughout the series, they are now partners in all aspects of their lives. The mystery surrounding Savelli’s murder has twists, turns & red herrings but the couple gradually uncover who the villain is & the climax had me holding my breath. There’s the added interest of an old flame of Constance’s mother, I look forward to learning how that develops. Another very well written engrossing murder mystery
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book leaned into the romance portion the most which is great cause this is their honeymoon! They mystery is still very front and center but this addition had a lot more references to the love and affection they had to one another. I liked the mystery but didn't love it as much as the previous books. I also had a harder time keeping track of people's names. I had to keep reminding myself who the people were. I am not sure why honestly. I liked the setting quite a lot, Venice, and I did not know about this history of the area. It was really interesting.

There was discussion of SA in this one as well in case that bothers anyone.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silver and Grey are on their honeymoon but returning from a trip to the opera, a Good Samaritan impulse lands them in the middle of a feud, leading to abduction, murder and poisoning. Theirs is going to be a highly unusual honeymoon! (Do hope the portrait gets finished and returns to London with them.)
This book can be read as a standalone.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Mary Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

I enjoyed the romance part of the book but not so keen on the mystery. They didn't want the killer to be anyone they liked and having gone round most of the protaganists they warmed to them. So I felt the author gave us one of the only people who wasn't popular and imo a bit of a weak motive. I'm enjoying this series so hope this is just a blip!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance in Venice by Mary Lancaster features our favorite sleuths, Solomon and Constance, who are on heir wedding trip in Venice. On their way to the gondola for their trip back to the villa in which they were staying, Solomon saw four men pounding on one. His sense of fair play demanded that he intervene. Their gondolier, after securing Constance’s promise that she would stay put, joined him. With those odds the attackers backed off and Solomon turned to Constance, only to see her being rushed off by two men, down an alley. By the time he got there, she was nowhere in sight. Fortunately, the man being attacked, Ludovico Giusti, knew exactly who his attackers were and where they had taken Constance. Meanwhile, when Constance arrived at her destination, the man there was angry with his underlings for seizing her and was making arrangements to return her, when the gondola with Solomon, Giusti, and Alvise arrived at the rear of his villa. Solomon was thankful and happy to see she was not harmed. With that, Savelli, the owner of this villa, realized that this vendetta between he and Giusti must stop. It was ridiculous. But, that was not to be, because by morning, Savelli was dead and Giusti was the prime suspect.

Solomon and Constance are an interesting couple, and never as interesting as they are in this story. Sadly, there was going to be more turmoil. Giusti turned out to be a good man with some flaws, but he was not a murderer. Savelli’s wife came to assist Constance when she was ill and Constance discovered she was pretty much without friends, but she was not a killer either. The mystery, convoluted as it was, was a good one and it all came clear in the end and the pair enjoyed the rest of their honeymoon. Love this series! Interesting characters, good plot, terrific settings. What’s not to like?

I was invited to read Vengeance in Venice by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #MaryLancaster #VengeanceInVenice

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth installment of the Silver and Grey series. It is a whirlwind of romance, danger, and historical intrigue—exactly the kind of story that sweeps you away from the very first chapter. Constance and Solomon begin their honeymoon in Venice with all the joy and tenderness you’d hope for, only to be thrown into chaos when a sudden street fight ends with Constance’s abduction. From that moment on, the “Serenissima” becomes anything but serene.
What really stands out is how the novel blends a vivid sense of place with a fast-moving mystery. Venice comes alive with its shadowy alleys, political tensions, and the lingering unrest after revolution and war. The couple quickly finds themselves entangled in a local vendetta that feels both intimate and deadly, especially once Angelo Savelli—the man behind Constance’s kidnapping—winds up murdered and they become the prime suspects.
Constance and Solomon make a wonderfully compelling pair. Their devotion to each other feels steady and believable, even as they plunge into a world of coded loyalties, cultural clashes, and dangerous secrets. Their determination to solve the mystery—despite the language barriers and the looming presence of Austrian secret police—keeps the tension high. The pacing sharpens even more once Constance is deliberately poisoned, turning the investigation into a desperate race to uncover the truth.
This is a gripping mix of love story and suspense, full of atmosphere and heart. If you enjoy historical mysteries with strong couples, rich settings, and life-or-death stakes, this one delivers from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review. 

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new exciting adventure for the newly married investigators Silver and Grey in Venice. As an Austrian and a big fan of Venice, I found the historical tidbits and beautiful descriptions very interesting.
As always, the plot is very well written, with lots of twists, action, intrigue, suspense, danger, interesting characters, and many possible motives and suspects. The fact that the story is written from multiple perspectives adds to the suspense.

Constance and Solomon are on their honeymoon in Venice when they witness a mugging. As Solomon rushes to help the victim, Constance is kidnapped by the fleeing thugs and taken to the house of the influential Signor Savelli, who immediately releases her once it becomes clear that she has no personal connection to his adversary Giusti, the man who was attacked.
However, when Signor Savelli is murdered shortly afterwards and they themselves come under suspicion, Constance and Solomon decide to take up the investigation themselves, much to the displeasure of the local police, and become entangled in a web of jealousy, envy, revenge, and political intrigue...

Overall, it's a great sleuth mystery in a romantic setting with endearing characters, action and suspense, that I'm happy to recommend!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Winnifred D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes: MC's team up to solve a mystery; MFC is kidnapped
Steam level: 1-2 (non-graphic sex)

4.5 stars rounded up. This entry in the series is excellent, an improvement over the last two IMO. The stakes are high, there's a nice change of pace with the Venice setting, and the chemistry between the MC's is a strong focus.

Pacing, writing style, and world building are also strong. Constance and Solomon are finally relaxing on their honeymoon, but the action kicks in quickly with Solomon trying to help a man being attacked. Meanwhile, Constance is kidnapped. Later that night, a man connected to the kidnapping is murdered, and Sol becomes a suspect. Emotions runs high as both he and Constance navigate unfamiliar territory and try to piece together who the culprit is.

My only nitpick is I wasn't completely convinced by the culprit's motive. I felt there was an espionage subplot that didn't quite emerge.

However, if you're a long-time reader of this author, and this series, you'll really enjoy this. Con and Sol's bond continues to strengthen. If you're new to HR mysteries, definitely give this series a try.

I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest, voluntary review. Thanks to the author, Dragon Blade, and Net Galley for this opportunity.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew these two can’t even have a honeymoon! We have our favorite couple now married Mr & Mrs Solomon Grey!
They are in Venice to enjoy wedded bliss when Constance is kidnapped and Solomon is scared and furious as she speaks almost no Italian. Solomon was assisting a gentleman who was getting beaten and the same gentleman took him to rescue Constance!
That is one of many unpleasant surprises they encounter! There is a poisoning, a murder and way too many suspects!
The closer they get to the clues the more the killer strikes back! Just when they think they know who did it! The clues take them in another direction! The murdered man’s wife is gorgeous but not that beautiful!
Solomon is injured while Constance is recovering these two do nothing by halfway! Constance meets a very debonair man who knew her mother!? So many moving pieces and parts! One thing is clear the murderer is willing to kill again! Bravo maybe this time they can actually enjoy being married after all the upheaval!?
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review!

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read all the books in this series, I found this novel the most exciting and gripping as Solomon and Constance arrive in Venice for their honeymoon.  It would seem that they are a magnet for mysteries to be solved and inadvertently step into trouble once again. I love that the plot is set in Venice, a city that I am familiar with. When Constance is abducted in a rescue gone wrong, it only whets their appetite as they start to piece the puzzle together. However, when Constance is targeted once again, Solomon will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. They meet a cross-section of the Venetian populace, and come to realize that feelings run deep in a city caught in the middle of a power struggle. They also discover allies who step in when needed, bringing the story to a successful conclusion, although I would have loved to know whether their portrait was completed. I received a copy of this mystery as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley, and this is my honest and voluntary review. 

[Anne-Mammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What made this series interesting is the character of the two main protagonists Constance and Solomon. In this book as indeed in the previous one, there was not much development in their characters, although there is perhaps an opening as we might learn more about Constance's mother in a future episode. They are now married and very much in love.
So what is there to keep us enthralled? Well it could have been the mystery, but I found it rather weak. it was convoluted and I felt Constance's need to recap regularly on their thinking as they were trying to solve the mystery was as much for our benefit than hers. In the end it all comes to a fairly violent climax, with, I thought some loose ends, not quite resolved or is it that they were there as red herrings to send us on the wrong path? Rossi, Penmarin, Alvise, the boatman or the unknown spy in their household come to mind.
Still even if it is not outstanding, it is still worth 4 stars as it provided me with several hours of relaxation, even if I was often frustrated as the plot got round in ever more complex circles.

[Vanesa Gjolaj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance in Venice is a captivating blend of romance, suspense, and rich historical detail. Lancaster immediately sets the stage with a dreamy Venetian honeymoon that quickly turns into a heart-pounding mystery. Constance’s abduction raises the stakes and pulls readers into a web of danger and intrigue. The tension between loyalty, love, and survival is written with great care. Solomon’s devotion and Constance’s quiet bravery make them a couple worth rooting for. The vivid descriptions of Venice bring the canals and palazzos to life, adding to the novel’s atmosphere. Every twist, from vendettas to poisonings, keeps the reader guessing. I especially enjoyed how Lancaster made the city itself feel like a character, both beautiful and menacing. The pacing is sharp, carrying suspense while still allowing space for heartfelt romance. This book is a thrilling and memorable addition to the Silver and Grey series.
- Vanesa Gjolaj, Author Of “The Enchanted Manuscript”

[Margaret Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solomon and Constance get embroiled in murder and mayhem while on honeymoon in Venice. While going home from the Opera they witness a gentleman, Ludovico Giusti, in a fight with multiple other men. Solomon jumps in to help Giusti but Constance is kidnapped by a group of other men. As Solomon and Giusti give chase, they end up at the home of Angelo Savelli. Constance is returned without issue but when Savelli is found dead both Solomon and Giusti are suspects to his death. Of course, Solomon and Constance must investigate to not only clear his name but also to find the killer. This installment to the Silver and Grey series is well written and action packed. I was guessing whodunnit until almost the end of the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elizabeth S · Rating 4 out of 5]

As Solomon and Constance enjoy their honeymoon in Venice, they attend a performance of Verdi's La Traviata. Afterwards, while walking to the boat which will take them to their lodgings, they see a street fight, which Solomon feels the need to involve himself in. Constance is kidnapped while the men punch each other.

Constance and Solomon attempt to solve the murder of Signor Savelli, but there are those who don't want their interference. It leads to her getting poisoned. There are many suspects, so in spite of Silver and Grey's cleverness at solving crimes, it takes a long time to puzzle out the mystery.

Mary Lancaster is masterful at creating tension from dangerous situations. If it were a movie, I'd be covering my eyes and peeking through my fingers.

[Cri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the Silver and Grey series and the title couple is finally blessedly wedded and on honeymoon in Venice, but trouble seems to follow them wherever they go.

I really liked that Sol and Constance are finally officially a couple but I missed some of the characters that usually filled their world in the UK.

I found a nice addition in Mr. Kellar and I am eager to know more about the past of Constance's mother.

All in all a nice reading, but I believe the previous books were a bit more successful plotwise.

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Constance and Solomon are back and in Venice for their honeymoon. I love this series for a couple reasons. First the mystery portion is always an attention grabber and it's fun to see if I can unravel it before it ends. Secondly and what makes it a bit more unique is that the series has taken us from the very beginning of these characters meeting all the way through the honeymoon. Most stories end after the marriage but I think this author does a great job in keeping our attention focused on both the mystery and the relationship. I'm hoping she takes us through some of the years of marriage as that would truly be unique.

[Dorothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance in Venice
By Mary Lancaster

I’m a big fan of Mary and can’t seem to get enough of her work. This one is the next adventure for her amateur sleuths, Silver and Grey. I would love to know how Mary writes these mysteries. It’s baffling to me. All the plot twists and suspects and there is always an element of danger to either or both of our would be detectives. Ms. Lancaster has a way of weaving all the elements together to make for an exciting interlude. You’ve done it again Mary. Bravo

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another tale of Solomon and Constance they are on their honeymoon journey in Venice. This time they get involved in a feud between an Austrian and the people of Venice .
It is tense and dramatic but they survive and there is an introduction of a new character Sebastian Keller who has been a love interesti of Constances mother in ther past.
I loved this book It is another great read from Mary Lancaster I love her books and an excited for the next.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade for my arc copy

[Anna Boliker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new investigation in a new setting. Venice did mix up the usual surroundings in a good a way and I even got a bit of this vacation flair that was surrounding the honeymoon.
So good to see that the married state did not change the investigative and interpersonal dynamics.
The mystery did drag on a bit, but this is certainly a complaint of a spoilt reader of tis author.

As the summer fades, enjoy the lasting sunshine from this entertaining, cozy read.

Thanks netgalley for the arc. Opinions are my own.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Constance and Solomon are on a wonderful honeymoon in Venice. On the way back to their rooms from the opera, Solomon stepped into stop a group of thugs from beating a man. While his attention was diverted, someone grabbed Constance. They were reunited soon and safely, but it led to yet another interesting mystery. There is murder, corrupt authorities, abduction, and poisoning. Once again, they are among those considered suspects. The couple, using their usual careful observation and logic, eventually discover the murderer. What a honeymoon! Another awesome adventure with Silver and Grey, well-written, with danger, suspense, interesting characters, and lots of romance.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Belle Ami · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance in Venice is book 6 in this historical Victorian romance series. Without having read the prior five books I still found this romance to be a page-turner and highly enjoyable. I loved the main characters Constance Silver and Soloman Grey, who are on their honeymoon in Venice when they are drawn into a feud and murder investigation. There are lots of twists and turns in the story and plenty of interesting history as to the political climate, social life, and the beauty of La Serenissima. Mary Lancaster’s writing is flawless.

[Pamela Blatter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Constance and Solomon are a fascinating couple.
Honeymoon time in Venice for them so relaxation and intimacy but they end up in the middle of a mystery.
Their connection makes it work for them both personally and professionally
I have loved their slow burn romance and devotion to each other despite their differences.
Highly recommend the series.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.

[Avril Hemingway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 6 in the series and we are in Venice on honeymoon so this book feels like romance first and then mystery second as it should. The mystery was still as good as ever though. The plot is very well written and moves along at a good pace with lots of twists and turns and is full interesting characters, All in all a very entertaining read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shirley Hamlod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another really interesting story in this series. Constance and Solomon are on their honeymoon in Venice when they become embroiled in another murder! At first, they become the prime suspects but there are lots of hidden secrets and unlikely suspects lurking in the shadows. Both their lives are put at risk before this particular murder is solved. A clever, interesting plot with Silver & Grey as our stalwart heroes.

[Mindy B (reader_of_the_lost_arcs) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read all the books in this series and I'm very glad Constance and Solomon are getting some romance, finally! Even if it is closed door. These two characters deserve some TLC. Good for them.
I felt the murder storyline was weak and not the best of this series. I had trouble following it.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.

[Chia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary Lancaster sweeps you away with her historical settings and fantastic characters!
Vengeance in Venice is packed with intrigue, secrets, and a romance that builds steadily against the backdrop of a vivid Venetian world. Atmospheric and so satisfying.

--
I'm so glad I was able to read it thanks to NetGalley. I loved every second of this book ♥

[Cynthia Houser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance in Venice

I'm totally hooked on mystery novels with a side of romance. When Constance and Solomon tied the knot, I was over the moon! But their honeymoon? Talk about drama. Constance has been dying to figure out who her dad is. And now this English diplomat shows up - could he be the missing piece of her family puzzle?

[CG · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silver and Grey in Venice

Another delightful mystery, this one interrupting their honeymoon in Venice. Kidnapping, murder, poisoning, intrigue. Who to trust in a foreign city? Who to suspect of these deeds from a long list of suspects? This is what Solomon and Constance do best, and they do it well, this time in Venice.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rollercoaster ride of a whodunit that kept me guessing the whole time.
See my full review at Reading World

[Jini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the mystery and love the couple. My only issue is as with many books these days - editing. Instead of another character's name, Constance is written. 'Devastated' is 'devasted'. Does no one read the books before putting them out there?