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Cesare Aldo #6
Shadow of Madness
The Crime Writers’ Association Historical Dagger Winning Author
Tuscany. Winter, 1540.
Travelling north into the hills above Florence, investigator Cesare Aldo seeks answers about his past. The trail leads him to Ospedale de’ Pazzi, a secure institution for the criminally insane.
Soon after arriving a blizzard engulfs the area, trapping Aldo and his companion, Doctor Saul Orvieto. Even more alarming, their cart driver is found dead. It looks like he fell over a nearby cliff in the whiteout – but Aldo suspects foul play. When a brutal slaying occurs in the central courtyard, it becomes clear a killer lurks among them.
With the snowstorm sealing everyone in and a murderer hunting fresh victims, Aldo’s search for the truth proves deadlier than he could ever have imagined . . .
Shadow of Madness is the sixth Cesare Aldo mystery by D. V. Bishop, preceded by Carnival of Lies, A Divine Fury, City of Vengeance, The Darkest Sin and Ritual of Fire.
Praise for D. V.
'It’s hard to think of a better guide than D. V. Bishop to the brutality and glamour of Renaissance Florence' Andrew Taylor, author of A Schooling in Murder
'A brilliant series' Anna Mazzola, author of The Book of Secrets
'Aldo is a magnificent creation' Vaseem Khan, author of The Edge of Darkness
Tuscany. Winter, 1540.
Travelling north into the hills above Florence, investigator Cesare Aldo seeks answers about his past. The trail leads him to Ospedale de’ Pazzi, a secure institution for the criminally insane.
Soon after arriving a blizzard engulfs the area, trapping Aldo and his companion, Doctor Saul Orvieto. Even more alarming, their cart driver is found dead. It looks like he fell over a nearby cliff in the whiteout – but Aldo suspects foul play. When a brutal slaying occurs in the central courtyard, it becomes clear a killer lurks among them.
With the snowstorm sealing everyone in and a murderer hunting fresh victims, Aldo’s search for the truth proves deadlier than he could ever have imagined . . .
Shadow of Madness is the sixth Cesare Aldo mystery by D. V. Bishop, preceded by Carnival of Lies, A Divine Fury, City of Vengeance, The Darkest Sin and Ritual of Fire.
Praise for D. V.
'It’s hard to think of a better guide than D. V. Bishop to the brutality and glamour of Renaissance Florence' Andrew Taylor, author of A Schooling in Murder
'A brilliant series' Anna Mazzola, author of The Book of Secrets
'Aldo is a magnificent creation' Vaseem Khan, author of The Edge of Darkness
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2026
About the author
D.V. Bishop
8 books104 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 34 reviews
June 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Snowbound Nightmare in Renaissance Florence. Shadow of Madness by D. V. Bishop
A deadly storm, a locked-down asylum and a murderer hiding among the trapped inhabitants make Shadow of Madness a tense and gripping mystery from the very beginning. As Cesare Aldo searches for answers about his own past, he finds himself caught in a nightmare where trust disappears, danger closes in, and survival depends on uncovering the truth before the killer strikes again. D. V. Bishop has created a chilling historical mystery that combines a brutal investigation with a vivid and atmospheric portrayal of Renaissance Italy.
The story follows investigator Cesare Aldo as he travels into the hills above Florence in 1540, searching for answers about his own past. His journey takes him to Ospedale de’ Pazzi, an institution for the criminally insane, where he is joined by Doctor Saul Orvieto. When a blizzard traps them inside and their cart driver is found dead, what first appears to be an accident quickly becomes something far more sinister. A brutal murder follows, and Aldo realises there is a killer hiding among the isolated group.
I loved the setting of this book. The snowbound hospital, fear and suspicion, and claustrophobic atmosphere made it feel like a classic locked-room mystery with Bishop’s own Renaissance twist. The tension builds steadily, and I was constantly questioning who could be trusted.
Cesare Aldo remains one of the strongest characters in historical crime fiction. He is intelligent, determined and deeply human, with a complicated past that shapes his choices. I particularly enjoyed seeing more of his personal journey alongside the investigation. His search for the truth is not just about solving a crime but about confronting the wounds and uncertainties that have followed him for years, which gives his actions a powerful emotional weight. Doctor Saul Orvieto was also a fascinating character, bringing a different perspective and adding depth to the story. Their dynamic is especially compelling because Orvieto challenges Aldo’s instincts and forces him to question whether reason, morality or personal loyalty should guide his decisions. Rather than simply acting as an ally, Orvieto becomes a mirror to Aldo, revealing the fears and motivations that drive them both.
The supporting cast were equally well drawn, with every character adding another layer of mystery. Bishop does a fantastic job of creating people who feel real rather than simply suspects or victims, making the twists and revelations much more satisfying.
The plot is cleverly constructed, with plenty of secrets, hidden motives and unexpected turns. I didn’t see every twist coming, and the final reveal felt earned rather than rushed. The combination of historical detail, complex characters and a genuinely unsettling mystery made this a book I didn’t want to put down.
Overall, Shadow of Madness is a beautifully written, atmospheric and compelling historical thriller. It works well as part of the Cesare Aldo series but can also be enjoyed on its own. A must-read for fans of dark mysteries, historical crime and unforgettable settings. I want to thank the publisher Pan McMillan and NetGalley. #ShadowofMadness #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In his 6th Cesare Aldo book, D.V. Bishop moves Aldo again – not to Venice this time, but out of the politically charged streets of Florence, to a frozen, isolated nightmare that checks every single box for a classic locked-room mystery.
Set during the bitter winter of 1540, we follow investigator Cesare Aldo, now working for the Duke, as he journeys north into the treacherous Tuscan hills. With him is physician Saul Orvieto.
Following on from events in Carnival of Lies and driven by a deeply personal quest to uncover secrets about his past, Aldo’s trail leads him to the Ospedale de’ Pazzi, a rundown, deeply unsettling institution run by monks and nuns, built to house the insane.
Things take a terrifying turn almost immediately upon their arrival. A sudden, vicious blizzard engulfs the mountain, completely cutting off the asylum from the outside world. When their cart driver is discovered dead at the bottom of a nearby cliff, it seems that he had an accidental fall in the whiteout.
When a second, brutal, slaying occurs right in the central courtyard, the tension rises. Trapped by the snow with a faceless killer in their midst, Aldo must solve the mystery before the body count rises.
Bishop captures the Gothic atmosphere beautifully. The bitter, biting cold seeps through stone walls. The howling, endless wind of the blizzard that masks the sounds of a killer. The flickering torchlight casting long, deceptive shadows down claustrophobic corridors. Bishop contrasts the high art, philosophy, and enlightenment of the Renaissance with the medieval, barbaric medical practices used to treat mental illness at the time. The Ospedale de’ Pazzi is not only a place of madness, it houses whispering spirits, brutality and many secrets.
Bishop starts with a deceptive, atmospheric slow burn as Aldo explores the eerie asylum and interrogates its eccentric inhabitants. But once the first courtyard murder occurs, the pace accelerates into a high-stakes sprint full of paranoia and riddled with tension. In an asylum filled with the insane, anyone could be the killer, and any corner could hide a trap. The asylum’s monks and guards operate with an unsettling mix of authoritarian cruelty and hidden guilt.
The heart of the novel’s success is the dynamic between Cesare Aldo and his lover and companion, Doctor Saul Orvieto. Their relationship is the vital emotional and intellectual anchor for this book. Cesare is driven by instinct and survival, where Saul is a man of science and logic. Saul’s compassion contrasts sharply with Aldo’s cynical view of human nature and in this novel, Aldo’s search for his own past drives him almost beyond reason. As Aldo grows increasingly anxious, Saul is there to calm him and look out for both his mental and physical health.
These contrasts create a beautiful friction. Orvieto looks at the suspects through the lens of a physician trying to understand madness, while Aldo views them through the pragmatic lens of a criminal investigator. As the danger escalates, their mutual trust is tested. They must rely on each other’s unique strengths to survive, making their partnership a true match of equals.
Bishop does not shy away from the harsh realities of 16th-century combat and murder. The killings are intimate, bloody, and sudden. The action sequences are fought with daggers and improvised weapons in cramped, dimly lit cells and Bishop makes them feel chaotic and dangerous.
Verdict: Shadow of Madness balances character development with a dark and chilling locked room plot. It is a dark, Gothic, winter chiller that will leave you shivering under the blankets. I loved it!
Set during the bitter winter of 1540, we follow investigator Cesare Aldo, now working for the Duke, as he journeys north into the treacherous Tuscan hills. With him is physician Saul Orvieto.
Following on from events in Carnival of Lies and driven by a deeply personal quest to uncover secrets about his past, Aldo’s trail leads him to the Ospedale de’ Pazzi, a rundown, deeply unsettling institution run by monks and nuns, built to house the insane.
Things take a terrifying turn almost immediately upon their arrival. A sudden, vicious blizzard engulfs the mountain, completely cutting off the asylum from the outside world. When their cart driver is discovered dead at the bottom of a nearby cliff, it seems that he had an accidental fall in the whiteout.
When a second, brutal, slaying occurs right in the central courtyard, the tension rises. Trapped by the snow with a faceless killer in their midst, Aldo must solve the mystery before the body count rises.
Bishop captures the Gothic atmosphere beautifully. The bitter, biting cold seeps through stone walls. The howling, endless wind of the blizzard that masks the sounds of a killer. The flickering torchlight casting long, deceptive shadows down claustrophobic corridors. Bishop contrasts the high art, philosophy, and enlightenment of the Renaissance with the medieval, barbaric medical practices used to treat mental illness at the time. The Ospedale de’ Pazzi is not only a place of madness, it houses whispering spirits, brutality and many secrets.
Bishop starts with a deceptive, atmospheric slow burn as Aldo explores the eerie asylum and interrogates its eccentric inhabitants. But once the first courtyard murder occurs, the pace accelerates into a high-stakes sprint full of paranoia and riddled with tension. In an asylum filled with the insane, anyone could be the killer, and any corner could hide a trap. The asylum’s monks and guards operate with an unsettling mix of authoritarian cruelty and hidden guilt.
The heart of the novel’s success is the dynamic between Cesare Aldo and his lover and companion, Doctor Saul Orvieto. Their relationship is the vital emotional and intellectual anchor for this book. Cesare is driven by instinct and survival, where Saul is a man of science and logic. Saul’s compassion contrasts sharply with Aldo’s cynical view of human nature and in this novel, Aldo’s search for his own past drives him almost beyond reason. As Aldo grows increasingly anxious, Saul is there to calm him and look out for both his mental and physical health.
These contrasts create a beautiful friction. Orvieto looks at the suspects through the lens of a physician trying to understand madness, while Aldo views them through the pragmatic lens of a criminal investigator. As the danger escalates, their mutual trust is tested. They must rely on each other’s unique strengths to survive, making their partnership a true match of equals.
Bishop does not shy away from the harsh realities of 16th-century combat and murder. The killings are intimate, bloody, and sudden. The action sequences are fought with daggers and improvised weapons in cramped, dimly lit cells and Bishop makes them feel chaotic and dangerous.
Verdict: Shadow of Madness balances character development with a dark and chilling locked room plot. It is a dark, Gothic, winter chiller that will leave you shivering under the blankets. I loved it!
July 9, 2026
This review was originally posted on Queen's Book Asylum.
I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Shadow of Madness is the sixth book in the very excellent Cesare Aldo series whose praises I’v been singing for over a year now on this little corner of the internet. And I’m lucky the publisher keeps giving me access to any upcoming ARC – even if I fail to write my review in a timely manner 😅 Btw, if you are an audiobook listener, I very highly recommend you check this series out, as the narrator is doing a great job with it!
But back to the book at hand. Shadow of Madness takes place about half a year after the events in Carnival of Lies, in which Aldo learns a certain secret about his past. His search for answers leads him to the Ospedale de’ Pazzi, where the criminally insane are kept by monks and nuns. But where Aldo goes, crime also follows and as it happens, he not only gets stuck there with Saul, but people start dying as well, and of course, it falls on him to investigate. I’m not going to talk about the plot in detail, you have to read the book for that, but I can tell you that there some delicious turn of events I loved reading. I did some things coming, not so much others. But for me, reading mystery books, half the fun is trying to figure out where the story is going and being right about it, and half the fun is to be caught unaware by something. Shadow of Madness had both of that aspect for me, which is one of the reasons I enjoy Bishop’s writing so damn much. Aside the insane (pun totally intended) amount of research he puts into these books.
In Shadow of Madness, we get to meet a whole new set of characters, bar some familiar faces. We have Aldo of course who is accompanied by Saul – I was so happy when I learned about this, because I wanted to see more of their relationship -, and we also have two nuns whom Aldo met in The Darkest Sin. There is going to be one other familiar name to those who read the previous books in the series, but that’s one spoiler I’ll keep to myself. That said, you don’t necessarily have to read the previous books to be able to follow the events here, but it would help for context. Among the new characters there is the abbot and the monks below him, three guards, and a few other nuns as well as the male and female inmates. All rounded out, well written characters, including the inmates, who didn’t get a lot of spotlight, but when they did, they definitely stole the scenes. I kind of missed having such a clear standout character as the Contessa Coltello in previous books, though. That said, we still had enough intrigue and secrets to go with.
My only teeny tiny complaint about Shadow of Madness is that we didn’t get nearly enough of Aldo and Saul together, which I really hoped for. But that’s just my personal preference, otherwise, I’ve nothing to complain about. Bishop continues to awe me with this series, and I keep finding it hard to put these these books down. And the good news is, if the ending is any indication, we’ll get Strocchi back next time and I couldn’t be more excited! The downside? I have to wait 2 years for the next book, and I need to have a word with whoever made this decision. Whatever the fuck am I going to do with myself until then?!
I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Shadow of Madness is the sixth book in the very excellent Cesare Aldo series whose praises I’v been singing for over a year now on this little corner of the internet. And I’m lucky the publisher keeps giving me access to any upcoming ARC – even if I fail to write my review in a timely manner 😅 Btw, if you are an audiobook listener, I very highly recommend you check this series out, as the narrator is doing a great job with it!
But back to the book at hand. Shadow of Madness takes place about half a year after the events in Carnival of Lies, in which Aldo learns a certain secret about his past. His search for answers leads him to the Ospedale de’ Pazzi, where the criminally insane are kept by monks and nuns. But where Aldo goes, crime also follows and as it happens, he not only gets stuck there with Saul, but people start dying as well, and of course, it falls on him to investigate. I’m not going to talk about the plot in detail, you have to read the book for that, but I can tell you that there some delicious turn of events I loved reading. I did some things coming, not so much others. But for me, reading mystery books, half the fun is trying to figure out where the story is going and being right about it, and half the fun is to be caught unaware by something. Shadow of Madness had both of that aspect for me, which is one of the reasons I enjoy Bishop’s writing so damn much. Aside the insane (pun totally intended) amount of research he puts into these books.
In Shadow of Madness, we get to meet a whole new set of characters, bar some familiar faces. We have Aldo of course who is accompanied by Saul – I was so happy when I learned about this, because I wanted to see more of their relationship -, and we also have two nuns whom Aldo met in The Darkest Sin. There is going to be one other familiar name to those who read the previous books in the series, but that’s one spoiler I’ll keep to myself. That said, you don’t necessarily have to read the previous books to be able to follow the events here, but it would help for context. Among the new characters there is the abbot and the monks below him, three guards, and a few other nuns as well as the male and female inmates. All rounded out, well written characters, including the inmates, who didn’t get a lot of spotlight, but when they did, they definitely stole the scenes. I kind of missed having such a clear standout character as the Contessa Coltello in previous books, though. That said, we still had enough intrigue and secrets to go with.
My only teeny tiny complaint about Shadow of Madness is that we didn’t get nearly enough of Aldo and Saul together, which I really hoped for. But that’s just my personal preference, otherwise, I’ve nothing to complain about. Bishop continues to awe me with this series, and I keep finding it hard to put these these books down. And the good news is, if the ending is any indication, we’ll get Strocchi back next time and I couldn’t be more excited! The downside? I have to wait 2 years for the next book, and I need to have a word with whoever made this decision. Whatever the fuck am I going to do with myself until then?!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Shadow of Madness is the sixth book in DV Bishop’s excellent and award-winning historical crime series set in Renaissance Florence, featuring investigator Cesare Aldo. This book finds Aldo out of Florence with his friend and lover Doctor Saul Orvieto. He is in pursuit of answers to his origins but ends up with much more to deal with. As with the previous book, Carnival of Lies, Bishop shifts gears a little with Shadows of Madness delivering something more in the way of an isolated location thriller.
In Carnival of Lies, Aldo discovered information about his mother and has now learned that he was possibly born at a remote clifftop location called the Ospedal de’Pazzi. Once a place where unwed women would be sent to give birth, the Ospedal has in more recent years become an asylum. Aldo and Orvieto have been given permission to go there under the pretence of checking the records and the treatment of the inmates. While they are only supposed to spend the day at the Ospedal, a blizzard strands them there. And then the murders start.
Bishop makes the most of his setting. The remote, cold and forbidding building, with its mentally ill patients who are all whispering about a supernatural being they call the ‘Spirito’. There is conflict and competition between the priests, who are responsible for the male inmates, the nuns who are responsible for the female inmates and the running of the facility, and the very earthy guards. There are only a few people that Aldo can trust as he puts himself in danger and the body count rises. In amongst this Aldo is also trying to dig into his own past, a mission that seems to be impacting on his own mental health.
As noted, six books in and DV Bishop continues to keep this series fresh by changing up the tone and the style. While the first few books were historical procedurals, the last was more of a spy novel with some heist elements. Shadow of Madness is still a murder mystery but embedded in a remote location thriller where an unknown killer is picking off characters one by one. At the same time, Bishop does not lose sight of Aldo’s search for information about his mother and his origins, and manages to bring some long awaited resolution of this ongoing plot thread.
While it might be able to be read as a standalone, Shadow of Madness not only progresses Aldo’s family issues but ties closely to a number of previous Aldo novels particularly the second, The Darkest Sin, and fourth, A Divine Fury. And it also ends on a bit of cliffhanger which seems to promise further exploration of the plot lines that ran through this and those previous two books.
In Carnival of Lies, Aldo discovered information about his mother and has now learned that he was possibly born at a remote clifftop location called the Ospedal de’Pazzi. Once a place where unwed women would be sent to give birth, the Ospedal has in more recent years become an asylum. Aldo and Orvieto have been given permission to go there under the pretence of checking the records and the treatment of the inmates. While they are only supposed to spend the day at the Ospedal, a blizzard strands them there. And then the murders start.
Bishop makes the most of his setting. The remote, cold and forbidding building, with its mentally ill patients who are all whispering about a supernatural being they call the ‘Spirito’. There is conflict and competition between the priests, who are responsible for the male inmates, the nuns who are responsible for the female inmates and the running of the facility, and the very earthy guards. There are only a few people that Aldo can trust as he puts himself in danger and the body count rises. In amongst this Aldo is also trying to dig into his own past, a mission that seems to be impacting on his own mental health.
As noted, six books in and DV Bishop continues to keep this series fresh by changing up the tone and the style. While the first few books were historical procedurals, the last was more of a spy novel with some heist elements. Shadow of Madness is still a murder mystery but embedded in a remote location thriller where an unknown killer is picking off characters one by one. At the same time, Bishop does not lose sight of Aldo’s search for information about his mother and his origins, and manages to bring some long awaited resolution of this ongoing plot thread.
While it might be able to be read as a standalone, Shadow of Madness not only progresses Aldo’s family issues but ties closely to a number of previous Aldo novels particularly the second, The Darkest Sin, and fourth, A Divine Fury. And it also ends on a bit of cliffhanger which seems to promise further exploration of the plot lines that ran through this and those previous two books.
March 8, 2026
Another very welcome addition to the Cesare Aldo series, but perhaps this one didn't quite match the grade of the others. The limitations of the enclosed setting - a remote building cut off by snow - told, and the story lacked breadth, It was good to see Sol Orvieto make a more solid appearance this time, but again he was tucked away throughout most of the book for a religious observance. This, as well as Aldo's continuing out-of-character behaviour with regard to his Aunt Lucrezia, struck an incongruous note. It seemed very strange that however devout a person was, they would willingly remain alone in a room when they knew that a ruthless killer was on the prowl, and even stranger that someone who cared for them would encourage them do so.
Unfortunately suffering from the limited scope of the setting, the story was a bit stilted and repetitive, and the pace was a little slow. Nevertheless, it still held the interest of the reader and Aldo was as robust a character as ever, rushing headlong in to danger and tackling every situation head-on, with consummate skill and ingenuity. It is this robust character of his that makes his almost histrionically unbalanced attitude to his Aunt Lucrezia's poisonous taunts seem so 'wrong'. It seems totally unbelievable that so solid a character can be so 'unmanned' by the petty and pejorative spite of a bitter old woman and to be driven to the brink of madness by it. It just doesn't ring true in so strong a character, so is difficult to assimilate. Thankfully, however, this storyline reaches a conclusion in this book, so hopefully we will see Aldo move on.
The plotline utilised a well-worn trope, but the author made the most of it, and the resulting action was engaging and compelling, overcoming the limitations of scope. As soon as the spirito was mentioned it was quite clear to me what was going on, but the suspense built well as the book progressed, despite there being a degree of predictability. The denouement came just at the right time, before the plot began to bore the reader, and all was well in the end. I'm not sure how Aldo's career move from the Otto to working for Cosimo de Medici will pan out, but at least we are spared the bullying Bindi and that whining milksop Strocchi. Looking forward to the next book.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest, unbiased review.
Unfortunately suffering from the limited scope of the setting, the story was a bit stilted and repetitive, and the pace was a little slow. Nevertheless, it still held the interest of the reader and Aldo was as robust a character as ever, rushing headlong in to danger and tackling every situation head-on, with consummate skill and ingenuity. It is this robust character of his that makes his almost histrionically unbalanced attitude to his Aunt Lucrezia's poisonous taunts seem so 'wrong'. It seems totally unbelievable that so solid a character can be so 'unmanned' by the petty and pejorative spite of a bitter old woman and to be driven to the brink of madness by it. It just doesn't ring true in so strong a character, so is difficult to assimilate. Thankfully, however, this storyline reaches a conclusion in this book, so hopefully we will see Aldo move on.
The plotline utilised a well-worn trope, but the author made the most of it, and the resulting action was engaging and compelling, overcoming the limitations of scope. As soon as the spirito was mentioned it was quite clear to me what was going on, but the suspense built well as the book progressed, despite there being a degree of predictability. The denouement came just at the right time, before the plot began to bore the reader, and all was well in the end. I'm not sure how Aldo's career move from the Otto to working for Cosimo de Medici will pan out, but at least we are spared the bullying Bindi and that whining milksop Strocchi. Looking forward to the next book.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest, unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A deeply satisfying story for long-time fans of the Aldo series.
"Shadow of Madness" opens in Tuscany, 1540, just a few days before Christmas. Aldo and Saul are on their way to visit Ospedale de’ Pazzi, an institution for the criminally insane, in a remote area north of Florence. Ostensibly there to carry out an inspection on behalf of his mentor, Duke Cosimo de Medici , Aldo is, in fact, seeking details of his birth mother. Soon after arriving, a storm engulfs the area, trapping everyone inside. And when their cart driver is found dead. Aldo suspects foul play. But that's just the beginning.
What follows is a fast moving and twisty story of past crimes, hidden secrets, and retribution, all told in the style of a Golden Age locked room mystery. With Aldo and Saul trapped in the institution, alongside monks, nuns, madmen and madwomen, the claustrophobia mounts as does the body count. Aldo encounters a superb cast of suspects - larcenous guards, silent nuns, murderous inmates, and monks with hidden secrets. If this book was a film, it would be a black and white, 1940's noir thriller.
Aldo and Saul experience their own challenges, although it's clear their relationship is as strong as ever, indeed, without Saul, Aldo might never leave the monastery alive. Its good to witness this strength amongst the horror of the institution.
Long-time fans of the series so far will revel in this book - threads from as far back as book one, but especially "Carnival of Lies" are (mostly) tied up in a way that will make readers feel a corner has been turned. But beware - the final few pages promise a whole new set of problems for Aldo and his companions.
My only disappointment was not meeting spy mistress Contessa Valentine Coltello, but I suspect the next book will remedy that.
Heartily recommended.
"Shadow of Madness" opens in Tuscany, 1540, just a few days before Christmas. Aldo and Saul are on their way to visit Ospedale de’ Pazzi, an institution for the criminally insane, in a remote area north of Florence. Ostensibly there to carry out an inspection on behalf of his mentor, Duke Cosimo de Medici , Aldo is, in fact, seeking details of his birth mother. Soon after arriving, a storm engulfs the area, trapping everyone inside. And when their cart driver is found dead. Aldo suspects foul play. But that's just the beginning.
What follows is a fast moving and twisty story of past crimes, hidden secrets, and retribution, all told in the style of a Golden Age locked room mystery. With Aldo and Saul trapped in the institution, alongside monks, nuns, madmen and madwomen, the claustrophobia mounts as does the body count. Aldo encounters a superb cast of suspects - larcenous guards, silent nuns, murderous inmates, and monks with hidden secrets. If this book was a film, it would be a black and white, 1940's noir thriller.
Aldo and Saul experience their own challenges, although it's clear their relationship is as strong as ever, indeed, without Saul, Aldo might never leave the monastery alive. Its good to witness this strength amongst the horror of the institution.
Long-time fans of the series so far will revel in this book - threads from as far back as book one, but especially "Carnival of Lies" are (mostly) tied up in a way that will make readers feel a corner has been turned. But beware - the final few pages promise a whole new set of problems for Aldo and his companions.
My only disappointment was not meeting spy mistress Contessa Valentine Coltello, but I suspect the next book will remedy that.
Heartily recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out of all Aldo´s books, I think this one has the most satisfying ending, at least for me.
And that´s probably because it hits all my sweet spots (well, not particularly the ending in this case, but the entire novel): We got murders at an isolated spot, religious people involved (I don´t know why, but I always enjoy the most when monks/nuns/priests are involved), Saul finally has more protagonism and... Well, Aldo finds what he was personally looking for.
Not to mention how everything was tied up at the ospedale once murders were solved. 10 out of 10 from me, overall.
But to the point: This story is the 6th of Cesare Aldo´s series.
Set in the winter of 1540, it begins pretty much where we left it last time, with Aldo on his new quest of finding his mother and somehow finding a clue that takes him and his partner, doctor Orvieto, to an ospedale near Florence. Originally they were meant to spend there just a few hours, enough to supervise the patient´s conditions and take a look at the records. But a snowstorm happens and then, a bunch of murders ocurr while no one can leave the building.
Not a very cozy weekend escapade, as you may imagine.
As per usual, this author has managed to create a nicely constructed mystery where no one (except perhaps one of two people that we knew from previous books) could not be trusted. It was hard to know if the crimes were being commited by the staff, the inmates or someone else entirely. And I must say in regards to this, I was surprised about a certain twist regarding the Monsignor (won´t say anything else not to spoil, but what the hell, I expected something in regards of Zati... but not like that).
Anyway, in summary: Very recommended LGBTQ+ thriller. I want more like this, please and thank you.
Also... I kinda want to have Aldo´s head. For more reasons than just his intelligence (if you know, you know)
And that´s probably because it hits all my sweet spots (well, not particularly the ending in this case, but the entire novel): We got murders at an isolated spot, religious people involved (I don´t know why, but I always enjoy the most when monks/nuns/priests are involved), Saul finally has more protagonism and... Well, Aldo finds what he was personally looking for.
Not to mention how everything was tied up at the ospedale once murders were solved. 10 out of 10 from me, overall.
But to the point: This story is the 6th of Cesare Aldo´s series.
Set in the winter of 1540, it begins pretty much where we left it last time, with Aldo on his new quest of finding his mother and somehow finding a clue that takes him and his partner, doctor Orvieto, to an ospedale near Florence. Originally they were meant to spend there just a few hours, enough to supervise the patient´s conditions and take a look at the records. But a snowstorm happens and then, a bunch of murders ocurr while no one can leave the building.
Not a very cozy weekend escapade, as you may imagine.
As per usual, this author has managed to create a nicely constructed mystery where no one (except perhaps one of two people that we knew from previous books) could not be trusted. It was hard to know if the crimes were being commited by the staff, the inmates or someone else entirely. And I must say in regards to this, I was surprised about a certain twist regarding the Monsignor (won´t say anything else not to spoil, but what the hell, I expected something in regards of Zati... but not like that).
Anyway, in summary: Very recommended LGBTQ+ thriller. I want more like this, please and thank you.
Also... I kinda want to have Aldo´s head. For more reasons than just his intelligence (if you know, you know)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Shadow of Madness is the sixth book in D.V. Bishop's Cesare Aldo series set in Renaissance Florence and I have to say that this is a series which is going from strength to strength, with this one possibly being my favourite of the series to date. Cesare and his companion, Dr Saul Orvieto find themselves trapped by a blizzard in a remote mountain top monastery which is also a prison hospital for the "incurabili" or criminally insane. What started out as a simple inspection, with the added opportunity for Cesare to investigate the truth of his birth at the hospital when it was an institution for unmarried mothers, quickly becomes a murder investigation when the body of their driver is found at the bottom of a cliff.
As settings for a murder mystery go, this really is an excellent one, isolated and ancient, with a whole cast of monks, nuns and prisoners thrown into the mix giving us plenty of potential murders and victims. Readers who have been following the series will be pleased to see how it ties in to some of the earlier books and there is significant progress in the over arching story of the mystery of Cesare's birth. The relationship between Cesare and Saul while not a focus of the book is there as a steadying thread woven through the story, and I loved the inclusion of Saul's diary entries throughout the book as they showed a real depth to his feelings for Cesare. The pacing is on point, with lots of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing and I found the ending incredibly satisfying. This series is one that I continually recommend to readers and I am always excited to hear that a new book is on the way because I know I am guaranteed an excellent entertaining read with emotional depth.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own .
As settings for a murder mystery go, this really is an excellent one, isolated and ancient, with a whole cast of monks, nuns and prisoners thrown into the mix giving us plenty of potential murders and victims. Readers who have been following the series will be pleased to see how it ties in to some of the earlier books and there is significant progress in the over arching story of the mystery of Cesare's birth. The relationship between Cesare and Saul while not a focus of the book is there as a steadying thread woven through the story, and I loved the inclusion of Saul's diary entries throughout the book as they showed a real depth to his feelings for Cesare. The pacing is on point, with lots of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing and I found the ending incredibly satisfying. This series is one that I continually recommend to readers and I am always excited to hear that a new book is on the way because I know I am guaranteed an excellent entertaining read with emotional depth.
I read an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own .
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Cesare Aldo series of books, set in 16th century Florence, continues to go from strength to strength. The background provides a fascinating time and place, the plots and characters are all well developed and Shadow of Madness, the sixth in the series, is the best yet.
We first meet Cesare Aldo and his companion, Dr Saul Orvieto, travelling to the Ospedale de’ Pazzi, an institution for the criminally insane in the hills around Florence, to carry out an inspection for Aldo’s mentor, Duke Cosimo de Medici. A snowstorm is threatening as they travel and the driver warns them they will need to leave quickly.
Obviously things do not go smoothly and they find themselves trapped by snow in the Ospedale, with the driver lying dead outside and no way to get back to Florence. It turns then into a classic locked room mystery with everyone acting suspiciously, from the monks and nuns who run the place to the guards and inmates inside, and plenty of secrets and past crimes uncovered.
The main storyline of the book is excellent and the atmosphere is superb – the sense of isolation, the cold, the danger, are all very well done and the plot is interesting and involved. It’s given added depth, though, with the background thread that carries through the series, that of Cesare’s background and family, and new secrets are thrown up here too to move that along. There are plenty of links to the earlier books so, although this works perfectly well as a standalone, it’s well worth new readers going back to the first book and enjoying it all from the start. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The investigator, the asylum and the snow storm - what could possibly go wrong? Far too much, this time, as Aldo, one time investigator for the criminal court of Florence, now working for the Duke, is on a mission with Dr Saul Orvieto, friend, doctor, confidant, and more.
The year is now 1540, but the city of Florence described herein is a wonderful portrait of the Florence of the future; Aldo, usually working well within the city walls, is tasked with looking into the activities of the nuns and monks who run the asylum in the hills above the city, discovers so much in such a short time. when a blizzard turns a visit of a few hours into an enforced stay of days. The dozen inhabitants being cared for are an eclectic collection of individuals, their circumstances often beyond their control and their treatment at the hands of the some of the staff leaving much to be desired.
Aldo is also here under another guise - he has been seeking information on the mother he never knew, and believes the asylum may hold a clue. However, distractions start arriving when first the cart driver who brought Aldo and Orvieto from Florence disappears in the blizzard, and then a gruesome act takes place within the asylum walls; Aldo has to investigate.
This is a historical take on the locked room mystery and DV Bishop does it with much panache. I could feel the claustrophobia of the setting and, as with the previous novels I've read from this series, the descriptions of places are portrayed convincingly, such that I can imagine these characters in the Florence of the 16th century. I did enjoy catching up with two of the nuns who appeared in an earlier volume, too, and seeing how their lives had evolved.
The year is now 1540, but the city of Florence described herein is a wonderful portrait of the Florence of the future; Aldo, usually working well within the city walls, is tasked with looking into the activities of the nuns and monks who run the asylum in the hills above the city, discovers so much in such a short time. when a blizzard turns a visit of a few hours into an enforced stay of days. The dozen inhabitants being cared for are an eclectic collection of individuals, their circumstances often beyond their control and their treatment at the hands of the some of the staff leaving much to be desired.
Aldo is also here under another guise - he has been seeking information on the mother he never knew, and believes the asylum may hold a clue. However, distractions start arriving when first the cart driver who brought Aldo and Orvieto from Florence disappears in the blizzard, and then a gruesome act takes place within the asylum walls; Aldo has to investigate.
This is a historical take on the locked room mystery and DV Bishop does it with much panache. I could feel the claustrophobia of the setting and, as with the previous novels I've read from this series, the descriptions of places are portrayed convincingly, such that I can imagine these characters in the Florence of the 16th century. I did enjoy catching up with two of the nuns who appeared in an earlier volume, too, and seeing how their lives had evolved.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Cesare Aldo has been on a quest to find out the truth about his mother and the circumstances of his birth.
Dr Saul Orvieto, his friend and lover, is worried, the answers that Aldo is seeking may not bring him any happiness.
Saul and Aldo are visiting a former mother and baby hospital in the mountain region above Florence, it is now a hospital for the insane, or incurables. It is staffed by an Abbot, Monks and Nuns, who are not happy about this unexpected visit. Aldo wants to find certain patient records, but what secrets are the staff hiding from him.
Sister Ortenza knows Aldo, he was responsible for her previous convent closing down. If his questions are answered he will leave.
However, a heavy blizzard prevents anyone from leaving the hospital, and when a body is found in the grounds, the snow makes everyone a suspect. The killer has been trapped inside with the innocent people. This creates a palpable sense of tension and unease. Aldo doesn’t know who to trust, and there are many diversions at play. There are cases of mistaken identity, plural murders , which create an atmosphere of suspicion, mistrust with episodes of madness and manipulation.
Aldo himself must have a very tough skull considering the number of times he is attacked and suffers concussion.
This book is so very emotional and is almost tender, despite the murderous situation Aldo finds himself in. The main characters go from strength to strength and they are a continual delight.
If you haven’t read the previous books, then the names, backstories and plot issues may well confuse. The next story hints that a former adversary may well return to torment Aldo further.
A well researched blend of historical facts and fiction, a really immersive read.
Dr Saul Orvieto, his friend and lover, is worried, the answers that Aldo is seeking may not bring him any happiness.
Saul and Aldo are visiting a former mother and baby hospital in the mountain region above Florence, it is now a hospital for the insane, or incurables. It is staffed by an Abbot, Monks and Nuns, who are not happy about this unexpected visit. Aldo wants to find certain patient records, but what secrets are the staff hiding from him.
Sister Ortenza knows Aldo, he was responsible for her previous convent closing down. If his questions are answered he will leave.
However, a heavy blizzard prevents anyone from leaving the hospital, and when a body is found in the grounds, the snow makes everyone a suspect. The killer has been trapped inside with the innocent people. This creates a palpable sense of tension and unease. Aldo doesn’t know who to trust, and there are many diversions at play. There are cases of mistaken identity, plural murders , which create an atmosphere of suspicion, mistrust with episodes of madness and manipulation.
Aldo himself must have a very tough skull considering the number of times he is attacked and suffers concussion.
This book is so very emotional and is almost tender, despite the murderous situation Aldo finds himself in. The main characters go from strength to strength and they are a continual delight.
If you haven’t read the previous books, then the names, backstories and plot issues may well confuse. The next story hints that a former adversary may well return to torment Aldo further.
A well researched blend of historical facts and fiction, a really immersive read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first adventure with Cesare Aldo, and while I did feel odd about jumping in at book six in an established series, I'm pleased to say that I never once felt lost. On the contrary, I've now rushed to pick up the first two books in order to catch up on what I've missed!
This book took hold of me and held on until I lost an entire weekend in its world. Evocative writing, brilliant characters and an engaging mystery in a setting that I had some passing familiarity with; enough to enjoy the little historic touches here and there. I did foresee a couple of the outcomes, but what I would call the most subtle, major twist shocked me deeply (in the best way!) as it seemed to come from nowhere! Yet in hindsight, the clues were there all along.
I also appreciated the subtext of two men in a relationship at a time - and amidst the literal church - that forbade such things, not least because of conflicting beliefs. The open-mindedness and genuine affectionate and humanity of our two protagonists was wonderful to travel with as a reader, and I found myself caring very much for their wellbeing. Aldo needs to wear a helmet more often in future!
While very different in setting and style, this reminded me of the Golden Age 'whodunnits'. The good and the bad, those you can sympathise with or feel anger rise when they simply enter the scene, and holding everything together is the detective and his aide. By the closing pages, Cesare and Saul felt like friends, and I was left with a sense of urgency to catch up with their lives prior to this before the sequel appears.
Hugely enjoyable and a definite recommend.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
This book took hold of me and held on until I lost an entire weekend in its world. Evocative writing, brilliant characters and an engaging mystery in a setting that I had some passing familiarity with; enough to enjoy the little historic touches here and there. I did foresee a couple of the outcomes, but what I would call the most subtle, major twist shocked me deeply (in the best way!) as it seemed to come from nowhere! Yet in hindsight, the clues were there all along.
I also appreciated the subtext of two men in a relationship at a time - and amidst the literal church - that forbade such things, not least because of conflicting beliefs. The open-mindedness and genuine affectionate and humanity of our two protagonists was wonderful to travel with as a reader, and I found myself caring very much for their wellbeing. Aldo needs to wear a helmet more often in future!
While very different in setting and style, this reminded me of the Golden Age 'whodunnits'. The good and the bad, those you can sympathise with or feel anger rise when they simply enter the scene, and holding everything together is the detective and his aide. By the closing pages, Cesare and Saul felt like friends, and I was left with a sense of urgency to catch up with their lives prior to this before the sequel appears.
Hugely enjoyable and a definite recommend.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Shadow of Madness is possibly my favourite of this series so far although it’s hard to pick because I’ve loved them all.
Cesare Aldo and Saul Orvieto travel to the isolated Ospedale de’Pazzi, a place for the incurably insane run by monks and nuns. They are officially there to carry out an inspection but in reality, Aldo is searching for answers about his own past.
What follows is an incredibly atmospheric locked room murder mystery full of flawed characters and where it is impossible to know who to trust. The decaying building seems to have a character of its own and even the walls whisper at night. Aldo has to fight his own demons to keep his mind fixed on both the murder investigation and his own search and I really enjoyed seeing the depth of love that Saul has for him and how this keeps Aldo grounded.
I also loved how the story connected with people in Aldo’s past in the way that people do crop up again in your life unexpectedly. All too often murder mysteries create a brand new cast for each mystery and I like the way that D V Bishop gives some of his earlier characters a new outing.
This is a brilliant addition to an excellent series firmly rooted in its 16th century Italian setting. If you have any interest in historical fiction or well written murder mysteries, then I recommend this series completely.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Cesare Aldo and Saul Orvieto travel to the isolated Ospedale de’Pazzi, a place for the incurably insane run by monks and nuns. They are officially there to carry out an inspection but in reality, Aldo is searching for answers about his own past.
What follows is an incredibly atmospheric locked room murder mystery full of flawed characters and where it is impossible to know who to trust. The decaying building seems to have a character of its own and even the walls whisper at night. Aldo has to fight his own demons to keep his mind fixed on both the murder investigation and his own search and I really enjoyed seeing the depth of love that Saul has for him and how this keeps Aldo grounded.
I also loved how the story connected with people in Aldo’s past in the way that people do crop up again in your life unexpectedly. All too often murder mysteries create a brand new cast for each mystery and I like the way that D V Bishop gives some of his earlier characters a new outing.
This is a brilliant addition to an excellent series firmly rooted in its 16th century Italian setting. If you have any interest in historical fiction or well written murder mysteries, then I recommend this series completely.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 20, 2026
David Bishop's Cesare Aldo historical thrillers have consistently been outstanding, and Shadow of Madness, the sixth novel in the series, is arguably the best yet.
When Cesare Aldo and his companion, Dr Saul Orvieto, travel to the Ospedale de' Pazzi—an institution for the criminally insane—to carry out an inspection, an unexpected snowstorm forces them to extend their stay. Trapped inside the isolated institution, they soon find themselves investigating a series of murders.
What follows is a classic locked-room mystery, with nuns, monks, guards and inmates all falling under suspicion. The author creates an intensely atmospheric setting, capturing both the bitter cold and the claustrophobic isolation of the property. The mounting tension and growing sense of unease make for a compelling read.
Long-time readers will appreciate the connections to earlier books in the series, but Shadow of Madness also works perfectly well as a standalone novel.
David Bishop is a gifted storyteller, and every instalment in the Cesare Aldo series is a pleasure to read. Shadow of Madness is yet another superb historical thriller that delivers mystery and suspense in equal measure. Highly recommended.
When Cesare Aldo and his companion, Dr Saul Orvieto, travel to the Ospedale de' Pazzi—an institution for the criminally insane—to carry out an inspection, an unexpected snowstorm forces them to extend their stay. Trapped inside the isolated institution, they soon find themselves investigating a series of murders.
What follows is a classic locked-room mystery, with nuns, monks, guards and inmates all falling under suspicion. The author creates an intensely atmospheric setting, capturing both the bitter cold and the claustrophobic isolation of the property. The mounting tension and growing sense of unease make for a compelling read.
Long-time readers will appreciate the connections to earlier books in the series, but Shadow of Madness also works perfectly well as a standalone novel.
David Bishop is a gifted storyteller, and every instalment in the Cesare Aldo series is a pleasure to read. Shadow of Madness is yet another superb historical thriller that delivers mystery and suspense in equal measure. Highly recommended.
July 29, 2026
In this sixth book of the series, it’s 1540 and Aldo Cesare is travelling from Florence to a remote hospital for the insane, the Ospedale de’ Pazzi. A former member of the Otto (the force tasked with enforcing laws in Florence), Aldo now works for Cosimo de’Medici, who has given him a letter saying he is to inspect the hospital and report back. Travelling with him is his friend and secret lover, Saul, a doctor who will inspect the patients. However, Aldo has business of his own and is hoping to learn more about his mother’s identity and what happened to her in the hospital’s records.
I love this series, as much as I do Aldo and Saul, both clever and compassionate men. As always the historical aspects are informative and well written and the plots exciting. A terrible snow storm sees Aldo and Saul trapped at the cold and decrepit hospital with a killer and at least one murder to solve in a dark, gothic, atmospheric closed room case. Nuns, monks and guards make up the secondary characters and what a motley bunch of misfits they are, complete with secrets and hidden intentions. Highly recommended for those who enjoy accurate historical mysteries with well developed characters and plots.
With thanks to Pan Macmillan via Netgalley for a copy to read.
I love this series, as much as I do Aldo and Saul, both clever and compassionate men. As always the historical aspects are informative and well written and the plots exciting. A terrible snow storm sees Aldo and Saul trapped at the cold and decrepit hospital with a killer and at least one murder to solve in a dark, gothic, atmospheric closed room case. Nuns, monks and guards make up the secondary characters and what a motley bunch of misfits they are, complete with secrets and hidden intentions. Highly recommended for those who enjoy accurate historical mysteries with well developed characters and plots.
With thanks to Pan Macmillan via Netgalley for a copy to read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Shadow of Madness sees Cesare Aldo back for his next murder mystery adventure, and the beautifully crafted story reminds me exactly why I love this series. This time the setting does a lot of the heavy lifting — the cold, snowbound hills above Florence create a claustrophobic, almost suffocating atmosphere as Aldo and his companion Saul Orvieto find themselves trapped by a storm. Their refuge, a hospital for the incurabile, run by nuns and monks, is eerie, unsettling, and utterly compelling as a place you really wouldn’t want to be stuck in any longer than necessary.
Of course, just as they’re preparing to descend the mountain and escape the snow, a murder is uncovered — and suddenly leaving is no longer an option. What follows is a tightly contained mystery as Aldo and Saul are forced to explore the hospital and its residents, peeling back layers of secrets, motives, and quiet desperation. Alongside the whodunnit, I really enjoyed how Aldo continues to uncover more about his own past. I particularly loved the ending.
(Copilot assisted me with the writing of this review - based on very specific prompts taken from my notes of reading the book).
Of course, just as they’re preparing to descend the mountain and escape the snow, a murder is uncovered — and suddenly leaving is no longer an option. What follows is a tightly contained mystery as Aldo and Saul are forced to explore the hospital and its residents, peeling back layers of secrets, motives, and quiet desperation. Alongside the whodunnit, I really enjoyed how Aldo continues to uncover more about his own past. I particularly loved the ending.
(Copilot assisted me with the writing of this review - based on very specific prompts taken from my notes of reading the book).
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Shadow of Madness by D V Bishop
This is another in the series of novels about Cesare Aldo and his secret lover Saul, a Jewish doctor. It is set in the middle of winter when the journey the remote Ospedale De Pazzi which they are going to visit is threatened by snow. The threatened snow arrives and Aldo and Saul are unable to leave. They are cut off at this hospital, presided over by monks, for those who are deemed mad.
Ostensibly Aldo is visiting the Ospedale at the behest fo the Duke but in reality he has his own motives for investigating this place as it may have been where his own mother was incarcerated. It is a dark and intricate story full of magnificent details of the period which the author does so well.
Aldo and Saul gradually peel back the layers to reveal what is hidden in this remote location but there are those who are very keen to keep the secrets hidden and Saul and Aldo’s lives are at risk. The ending of the novel was very satisfying and I will be thoroughly recommending this at my various book groups. Thanks go to the author, the publishers and to Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in return for an honest review.
This is another in the series of novels about Cesare Aldo and his secret lover Saul, a Jewish doctor. It is set in the middle of winter when the journey the remote Ospedale De Pazzi which they are going to visit is threatened by snow. The threatened snow arrives and Aldo and Saul are unable to leave. They are cut off at this hospital, presided over by monks, for those who are deemed mad.
Ostensibly Aldo is visiting the Ospedale at the behest fo the Duke but in reality he has his own motives for investigating this place as it may have been where his own mother was incarcerated. It is a dark and intricate story full of magnificent details of the period which the author does so well.
Aldo and Saul gradually peel back the layers to reveal what is hidden in this remote location but there are those who are very keen to keep the secrets hidden and Saul and Aldo’s lives are at risk. The ending of the novel was very satisfying and I will be thoroughly recommending this at my various book groups. Thanks go to the author, the publishers and to Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A tense claustrophobic thriller. When your protagonist is travelling to somewhere gloomy and remote with the threat of snow overheard you know he isn't going to be leaving any time soon. And so it proves for Cesare Aldo and his secret lover Saul as they arrive at the Ospedale De'Pazzi. home to a handful of monks and nuns and inmates, incarcerated there due to madness. Aldo's official reason for visiting is an inspection on behalf of the duke but his real reason is much more personal. Ever since his stepmother taunted him about his parentage on her deathbed Aldo has been obsessed with finding out more about his mother, and he hopes the Ospedale holds the key. But his arrival is greeted with suspicion, the inhabitants have their own reasons for not wanting Aldo to access their records and as the snow falls ever harder it's clear that Aldo will need to stay for more than a few hours - and that's before the first body is found. It won't be the last.
Dark, twisty and full of the period details DV Bishop does so well this is a satisfying continuation of the Aldo series. Recommended.
Dark, twisty and full of the period details DV Bishop does so well this is a satisfying continuation of the Aldo series. Recommended.
July 14, 2026
Shadow of Madness (Cesare Aldo Book 6)
5 🌟 review
Well I’ve finished and what a storyline.
I love this series of books, and when I read them it’s like meeting up with old friends.
Cesare’s stepmother Lucrezia is dead and she’s left him with a final mark of her hatred of him regarding his mother. Is she dead or not?
His searches take him to an asylum for the criminally insane, where he plans to search their archives, his lover Saul accompanies him as he’s worried about what the possible discoveries may affect Cesare.
They get snowed in and then there’s a murder, also they meet up with some old friends, it’s very atmospheric and not everything is as it looks.
So without spoilers, it’s a puzzle, but Cesare and Saul come through it with many surprises, things are resolved.
Now I have to wait for Book 7, which looks to be very interesting and challenging for our heroes.
5 🌟 review
Well I’ve finished and what a storyline.
I love this series of books, and when I read them it’s like meeting up with old friends.
Cesare’s stepmother Lucrezia is dead and she’s left him with a final mark of her hatred of him regarding his mother. Is she dead or not?
His searches take him to an asylum for the criminally insane, where he plans to search their archives, his lover Saul accompanies him as he’s worried about what the possible discoveries may affect Cesare.
They get snowed in and then there’s a murder, also they meet up with some old friends, it’s very atmospheric and not everything is as it looks.
So without spoilers, it’s a puzzle, but Cesare and Saul come through it with many surprises, things are resolved.
Now I have to wait for Book 7, which looks to be very interesting and challenging for our heroes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am beginning to love historical fiction more and more especially when you read a book like this (well the whole series !!). It is like a locked room story only set up in a remote mountain "ospedale" outside Florence in mid winter, and with Aldo being there, trouble follows! So along with a few murders, there is plenty of other things going on including Aldo still trying to find out more about his birth mother. The story is dark in so many places both literally and figuratively but it has a great pace and I kept turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. A good solid ending with a tease of what Aldo's next adventure will be.
Thanks to Netgalley/Macmillan books for the ARC to review
Thanks to Netgalley/Macmillan books for the ARC to review
July 11, 2026
An excellent, suspenseful closed room thriller, set near medieval Florence, in a very atmospheric setting.
Excellent research, as always with this author, and I do value that. However, it does not in any way detract from the story.
The story contained in this book is very engrossing, becomes quite compelling, and with plenty of nice twist and turns.
The characters are believable, with plenty of red herrings.
I have read and enjoyed the previous books in this clever series. but you could actually read this as a standalone, although you wouldn't get quite so much satisfaction from the story.
For those of us who have been following the story, the story arc develops beautifully. I do hope there are more.
Excellent research, as always with this author, and I do value that. However, it does not in any way detract from the story.
The story contained in this book is very engrossing, becomes quite compelling, and with plenty of nice twist and turns.
The characters are believable, with plenty of red herrings.
I have read and enjoyed the previous books in this clever series. but you could actually read this as a standalone, although you wouldn't get quite so much satisfaction from the story.
For those of us who have been following the story, the story arc develops beautifully. I do hope there are more.
August 13, 2026
The Ospedale de Pazzi in the hills above Florence is a place where the mad are kept out of sight. Cesare Aldo and his friend Saul are visiting to try to find some answers about Cesare's mother and their quest has led to this forsaken place. Trapped by a sudden snowstorm the pair find themselves at the mercy of a killer who has vengeance in mind. Even when Cesare gets some answers, there are more questions appearing in front of him.
Yet again Bishop has produced a gripping story about Renaissance era Florence and his hero Cesare Aldo. I love the care that it taken with research about the care of the mentally ill at the time. The knowledge of Jewish life and societal norms is excellent. Add into that a good little mystery and this is a book to really enjoy.
Yet again Bishop has produced a gripping story about Renaissance era Florence and his hero Cesare Aldo. I love the care that it taken with research about the care of the mentally ill at the time. The knowledge of Jewish life and societal norms is excellent. Add into that a good little mystery and this is a book to really enjoy.
February 21, 2026
D V Bishop’s latest instalment is a gripping continuation that delivers both intrigue and atmosphere, with a welcome return of some familiar faces that long-time readers will appreciate. The story builds on the strengths of the series, placing the well loved protagonist, Cesare Aldo, at the centre of a tense and twisting investigation that feels both personal and perilous.
The pacing is strong throughout, with clues revealed at just the right moments to keep you guessing, and while the resolution is neatly tied up, almost, there are just enough lingering threads to leave you eager for the next book. A compelling and satisfying read that earns its four stars.
The pacing is strong throughout, with clues revealed at just the right moments to keep you guessing, and while the resolution is neatly tied up, almost, there are just enough lingering threads to leave you eager for the next book. A compelling and satisfying read that earns its four stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The sixth book in this delightful series with Cesare Aldo and I’ve given it five stars – again. I just cannot get enough of this character, the ‘interesting’ times he lives in, and the writing style. ‘Interesting’ times because life in Italy in 1540 was hard. Aldo is working for Cosimo de’Medici and at the same time trying to find out what happened to his mother, who supposedly died in childbirth. Now Aldo’s 43th birthday is very near and the trail leads him to a secluded place, where a small group of ‘incurabili’ is living with some monks and nuns caring for them.
It is winter 1540 and Aldo and his friend Saul Orvieto are arriving at the Ospedale de’ Pazzi with a letter from Cosimo that says he and Saul are there to inspect the Ospedale. Soon after their arrival the first murder occurs and from then on things go downhill very fast. A snowstorm prevents Aldo and Saul to leave, and within the next few days more murders follow. It is only a small group of people in the Ospedale, and most of them are the incurabili and they are locked up, so who is the killer? And could there perhaps be more than one?
The whole story is set at the Ospedale and everything happens within a few short days. It wasn’t very hard to see what was happening and why, but reading how Aldo and Saul solved it was fun. I loved the different characters (well, the good ones at least) and I’m happy to see that in the end, Aldo and Saul leave the Ospedale a bit wiser and with new hope for the future.
Thanks to PanMcMillan and Edelweiss for this review copy.
It is winter 1540 and Aldo and his friend Saul Orvieto are arriving at the Ospedale de’ Pazzi with a letter from Cosimo that says he and Saul are there to inspect the Ospedale. Soon after their arrival the first murder occurs and from then on things go downhill very fast. A snowstorm prevents Aldo and Saul to leave, and within the next few days more murders follow. It is only a small group of people in the Ospedale, and most of them are the incurabili and they are locked up, so who is the killer? And could there perhaps be more than one?
The whole story is set at the Ospedale and everything happens within a few short days. It wasn’t very hard to see what was happening and why, but reading how Aldo and Saul solved it was fun. I loved the different characters (well, the good ones at least) and I’m happy to see that in the end, Aldo and Saul leave the Ospedale a bit wiser and with new hope for the future.
Thanks to PanMcMillan and Edelweiss for this review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Again a really gripping thriller featuring Aldo and Orviedo! Set in a dark ospedale/asylum contrasting with the blaring storm of snow outside the walls, this novel delves in an atmospheric murderous situation. Indeed, the darkness is not only found within the ospedale but also within souls and their secrets....
The characters are very convincing and I love Aldo's personality! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
The characters are very convincing and I love Aldo's personality! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This series just gets better and better. This book is full of the usual murders, mysteries and Aldo sorting it all out. A great setting in the hospital and a great cast of interesting characters. Lots of looking back at what happened or was mentioned in previous books but this is a series best read in order to get the full character of Aldo. I liked the ending and especially the way it lead into the next book. I would hate this series to end. With thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the e-ARC to read and review.
July 11, 2026
Cesare Aldo is now working for Cosimo de Medici, having left the Otto.
He is asked to visit a hospital for the mentally infirm outside Florence but has his own reasons for going…
On reaching the hospital the weather turns and Aldo and Saul, who has accompanied him, are forced to prolong their visit - then a series of murders makes it impossible not to stay and solve.
Another great Cesare Aldo thriller by D V Bishop.
He is asked to visit a hospital for the mentally infirm outside Florence but has his own reasons for going…
On reaching the hospital the weather turns and Aldo and Saul, who has accompanied him, are forced to prolong their visit - then a series of murders makes it impossible not to stay and solve.
Another great Cesare Aldo thriller by D V Bishop.
July 15, 2026
This was a fascinating story with lots of undertones. An investigator and a Jewish man travel to investigate a Monastery/Nunnery/home for the insane. There is a continuous undercurrent of things going on which are difficult to pin down. People start getting killed by an unknown murderer who lives in the building! It is a very complicated story and I won't spoil it by saying anymore. It does have an excellent conclusion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Book 6 in the highly acclaimed Historical Crime series featuring Cesare Aldo. This is a series which just gets better and better, one of the finest historical crime series i’ve read.
For me this had (in a good way) a slightly different feel and tone to the story, in part due to the setting, a setting which lends itself to a classic locked room mystery, but one of the main differences was that of a feeling of pure, raw and at times tender emotion etched into Aldo. There is a real atmospheric feel to this book.
The plotting is meticulous in its construct all along you get these little twists thrown in to keep you guessing and i’m pleased to say that i didn’t guess the reveal, the pacing of the book befits the time and period, but one thing it doesn’t lack is suspense and drama.
Setting the book in a Ospedale run by monks and nuns for those incurabli the writing gives you a real sense of the fear and danger involved not only in looking after the patients but for the patients themselves, there is a feeling of claustrophobia in the air.
As usual the writing is richly evocative, written with real feeling for the characters, the author paints a vivid picture of both the institution itself as a building but also of those who inhabit the building. You get an overriding sense of place and time, everything is brought wonderfully to life on the page, you can feel yourself there taking in the sights and sounds. The author is very adept at bringing his characters to life. For me apart the the authors ability to craft a narrative guaranteed to give the books storytelling full of depth and quality is the research undertaken to give the story a real sense of realism for the period, you get a sense of the attention to detail, it’s those little things which make the book standout.
Another thing I like about the way the author creates his characters, not only can you believe in them, but he writes them with such emotion, then with the location and geography which gives you a sense for the landscape, also with this book you get an overriding sense of loneliness, you also have the weather which gives you a cold feeling and you can feels the chills running throughout the book.
As a murder mystery it has the classic elements, there is plenty of subterfuge and doubt thrown upon the characters to leave you guessing as to the true identity, the story is packed with twists and turns all building to the reveal, as you read on the drama increases.
There was an aside with this book as Aldo looks to his past, it’s emotionally charged
As with this series as a whole, you savour each book taking in each sentence and word, this is a read where the writing has that poetic feel about it.
This was a book which I just lost myself in, a compelling and engaging read, crucially for me you can believe in the accuracy and feeling that the narrative gives you for the period
This comes highly recommended, I would say that this can easily be read as a standalone, however, once read i’m sure you will be reading the rest.
For me this had (in a good way) a slightly different feel and tone to the story, in part due to the setting, a setting which lends itself to a classic locked room mystery, but one of the main differences was that of a feeling of pure, raw and at times tender emotion etched into Aldo. There is a real atmospheric feel to this book.
The plotting is meticulous in its construct all along you get these little twists thrown in to keep you guessing and i’m pleased to say that i didn’t guess the reveal, the pacing of the book befits the time and period, but one thing it doesn’t lack is suspense and drama.
Setting the book in a Ospedale run by monks and nuns for those incurabli the writing gives you a real sense of the fear and danger involved not only in looking after the patients but for the patients themselves, there is a feeling of claustrophobia in the air.
As usual the writing is richly evocative, written with real feeling for the characters, the author paints a vivid picture of both the institution itself as a building but also of those who inhabit the building. You get an overriding sense of place and time, everything is brought wonderfully to life on the page, you can feel yourself there taking in the sights and sounds. The author is very adept at bringing his characters to life. For me apart the the authors ability to craft a narrative guaranteed to give the books storytelling full of depth and quality is the research undertaken to give the story a real sense of realism for the period, you get a sense of the attention to detail, it’s those little things which make the book standout.
Another thing I like about the way the author creates his characters, not only can you believe in them, but he writes them with such emotion, then with the location and geography which gives you a sense for the landscape, also with this book you get an overriding sense of loneliness, you also have the weather which gives you a cold feeling and you can feels the chills running throughout the book.
As a murder mystery it has the classic elements, there is plenty of subterfuge and doubt thrown upon the characters to leave you guessing as to the true identity, the story is packed with twists and turns all building to the reveal, as you read on the drama increases.
There was an aside with this book as Aldo looks to his past, it’s emotionally charged
As with this series as a whole, you savour each book taking in each sentence and word, this is a read where the writing has that poetic feel about it.
This was a book which I just lost myself in, a compelling and engaging read, crucially for me you can believe in the accuracy and feeling that the narrative gives you for the period
This comes highly recommended, I would say that this can easily be read as a standalone, however, once read i’m sure you will be reading the rest.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Such an incredible setting for a novel, filled with historical detail but completely immersive and realistic with a great cast of characters for a twist on a closed circle murder mystery. The pace kept me page turning. Loved it.
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