The Borgia Vigil

by Gary McAvoy

Father Michael Dominic is mere weeks from his wedding to Hana Sinclair when an art restorer dies inside the Vatican's Borgia Apartments, and a sealed niche behind Pinturicchio's frescoes surrenders a five-hundred-year-old a ledger, a founding charter, and a reliquary pendant cataloging one hundred and eleven objects spirited out of Rome in the dying hours of Alexander VI's pontificate. The documents name a trafficking confraternity—the Sisters of the Sacred Vigil—chartered to move Borgia assets into the shadows and never disband. They never did. Their modern prioress, Mother Superior Agnese Visconti, is a former military intelligence operative who views the late Pope Ignatius's marriage reform as an act of desecration and Michael as its most visible offense. She wants the ledger. She wants the reliquary. She intends to take both before the wedding can happen. If it happens…

The investigation pulls Michael and Hana from the Vatican's underground Scavi to a centuries-old convent in the Umbrian hills, from a clandestine staging chamber beneath St. Peter's Basilica—where an inscription carved into the stone reads Custodes Keepers of the Wheel—to the deck of a Lebanese collector's yacht in Civitavecchia harbor. Michael recovers the reliquary. Agnese disappears through a port window and into arrangements she made weeks before anyone knew to look for them.

The endgame moves to Hana's villa in Èze, where Agnese has been a ghost among the wedding guests for thirty-six hours before anyone sees her face in a mirror. What follows is equal parts reckoning and ceremony—a fight for a five-century chain of stolen custody, resolved under the olive trees of the Côte d'Azur. The Borgia Vigil is the thirteenth Vatican Secret Archive Thriller, and the one in which Father Michael Dominic finally gets married—provided the Wheel stops turning long enough to let him.

382 pages, ebook

Published July 31, 2026

About the author

Gary McAvoy is an American novelist known for internationally bestselling thrillers that blend historical intrigue, religious scholarship, and modern suspense. A lifelong researcher of rare manuscripts and Church history, he draws on extensive archival study to craft narratives rooted in authentic detail. His work includes the Vatican Secret Archive Thrillers, the Magdalene Chronicles, and the Vatican Archaeology Thrillers. Before turning to fiction, McAvoy built a distinguished career as an entrepreneur, technology consultant, and collector of historical documents. He now writes full time from the Pacific Northwest, where he continues to explore the shadowed crossroads of faith, power, and history.

Reviews

[Ross Strachan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest adventure for Father Michael feels like a true change of direction. Father Michael and Hana are moving forward with their marriage but it is clear that their adventuring days hold.more adventures.

Gary's writing style has changed in this book and I found myself looking for hidden meaning in every chapter.

The world of the Vatican Secret Archieve seems to grow and move in different directions with every book and I can not wait for the next installment.

[Charles Sexton · Rating 5 out of 5]

McAvoy Does It Again

Fantabulous story. Once begun I had to read on! I love the characters, the story and the writing. The main characters are so recognizable. A must read.

[Maria Fledgling Author Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will They or Won't They Wed?

The Borgia Vigil draws us deep into the 14th and 15th century scandals of the Papacy of Rome and the much mythologized family of Lucrecia Borgia. Building upon the death of Pope Alexander VI, and the chaos that followed his death, Gary McAvoy creates an intriguing thriller that is not what you'd expect.

Centered around the wedding of Father Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair, a conspiracy is woven from the Church in Rome, through a fanatical Order of Sisters, keeping an ancient promise that has devolved into sacred artifact trafficking.

Father Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair risk their lives and the reputation of the Church in a chase that finds them in unknown stone tunnels beneath the Basilica of St. Peter, on Luxury Yachts with criminal artifact collectors, and in the Vatican itself, climbing a famed Helix staircase at midnight barely eluding two murderers.

Will the perpetrators be delivered to the authorities? Will Hana and Michael ever get married? If they are joined in marriage, how will Father Michael Dominic's workload change? Gary McAvoy answers all of these questions and, in the epilogue, tells truth from fiction and a little bit of where he gets his thriller ideas. Another 5-star book, thank you Gary McAvoy.

[Liz Hatcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book where Father Dominic and Hana Sinclair finally get married. I was a little confused at the beginning of the book; but, after a couple of chapters I began to understand what was going on in the story.

Mr. McAvoy has a way of writing which draws you into the story and makes you feel as though you are right there with the characters. He describes locations excellently and even describes the food that is being eaten at their meals. His characters stand out in your mind as he tells you about them, both physically and emotionally.

The wedding was described beautifully without any serious incidents happening, even though everyone was prepared for something to happen to disturb the wedding (which it almost did, but not as climactic as in previous books).

I was surprised at Cardinal Severino's statement to Father Dominic at the ending of the story; but, I assume this will be the beginning of the next book that Mr. McAvoy is writing. He mostly says it is in his wrap up in Facts or Fictions pages that this is true.

Can't wait for the next book!!

[Linda Eagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

These Vatican thrillers get better and better.This one was special and the one I was waiting for . Please. Keep the great historical story lines and beautiful Italy scenery!

[George F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riveting….as always

“The Borgia Vigil”, once again, proves that Gary McAvoy is a gifted author. If you haven’t experienced his work yet, you have missed one of the great pleasures of life. I do warn you that the books are addictive. I literally could NOT put this thriller down.

[Sage · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Happened! And a lot more happened too!

All these years and all these books, and yes! One suspense is over but there’s still more in the works!

This is my favorite McAvoy book so far, of this series and perhaps even of all!

As Gary mentioned, this book also has a noticeably different feel. I like it!

[Mrs C E M Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Borgia Vigil

Absolutely brilliant. Great storytelling, descriptions of place’s & circumstances were so good that I would love to be at EVE, sit on the veranda & listen to the sea, smell the lemons & partake of the feasts that were held for Michel & Hana’s wedding. More mysterious skullduggery know doubt to read in Mr McAvoy’s next novel.

[Melanie Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! I’m so thrilled that there seem to be more archives books coming. I like them so much more than the archaeology ones. Even though much of the regular cast is the same, these are just so much more believable!

I do have a question though… or maybe it’s not one we’re meant to know the answer to.
We know that Michael and Hana did seep in the same bed, at least sometimes, before they were married, but did they consummate their relationship?

[Debbie Vetter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another can't put down

I wish Father Michael and Hana exploits were published as quickly as I read them. Mr McAvoy has a knack for blending fact with fiction and, better yet, he explains it all at the end. A restorer at the museum is found dead in the stairwell. She had worked there for years and often worked late. Father Michael is called in to look at the painting she was working on. After close inspection he notices a seam. After tapping on the area it opens and artifacts are found. Then the games begin. Now its time for you to start reading. Great job. Thank you.

[Scott B Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent milestone story in the series

The author continues to weave excellent tales set within the Vatican that are very entertaining and while reading, and feel believable and possible. His main characters are brilliant and compassionate. His bad people are very bad and pretty merciless.
Looking forward to the next book!

[Mary Patricia Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly impressed!

I truly enjoyed reading this very well researched book by Gary McAvoy! I just love burying myself in novels of ancient Rome, very early Christianity and how so much of our past becomes clearer once we delve into 'secrets of the past'. I'm going to check out more of his books

[Michele Webber · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had a different rhythm. It took getting used to the change and then was enjoyable.

[Mary Jo Miuccio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful writing and very exciting. Descriptive story that moves smoothly and quickly. Love this series and so far, this is the best one and my favorite!

[Gina Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book much more than the recent installments of this series. To be honest, I felt that it had gotten a bit too sappy for me - way too much 'Michael & Hana held hands on the balcony while the setting sun cast it's golden rays upon the rooftops of Rome'. It gave me romance novel vibes. I had doubts that I wanted to continue with the adventures of Father Michael & Hana & friends.

I was pleased to read that even with a wedding on the horizon, the sap was gone. The story kept me up past my bedtime and the twist at the end surprised me. I'm looking forward to Michael's next archival adventure.

[Lisa Shower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exceptional

I have read this entire series, each book is amazing yet this one was so much more. I am finding it hard to find the right words. Mr. McAvoy did you intentionally change the tempo of this entry or is it me? Whichever, I found myself reading more carefully, slower, paying attention to the mood as well as the words. Bravo!

[John Kerivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

McAvoy is a very good author that balances the themes with very good character development. He maintains the suspense and does not compromise plot integrity.
A very good story.
Well done!

[Vicki Tramonte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always a wild ride and learn so much!

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Gary McAvoy for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Before this series began, I never imagined I’d become so invested in Vatican history, Church doctrine, and the lives of a priest and an art historian. Thirteen novels later, Gary McAvoy has made all three feel inseparable. This latest instalment is another confident blend of historical intrigue, theological debate, and character-driven storytelling that rewards long-time readers while once again proving why the Vatican Secret Archives series stands among the finest religious thrillers being written today.

Gary McAvoy has become my go-to author for intelligent thrillers that blur the line between Church history and compelling fiction. Once again, he dives into obscure Vatican secrets with remarkable confidence, building a story around hidden Borgia relics, centuries-old conspiracies, and the dangerous consequences of challenging established doctrine. The novel asks difficult questions about tradition, reform, and whether the preservation of faith sometimes comes at the expense of truth. Rather than taking cheap shots at Catholicism, McAvoy crafts a nuanced exploration of the Church’s internal struggles, allowing competing beliefs to collide in thoughtful and believable ways. The theological debates never overwhelm the narrative, instead enriching a thriller that constantly reminds readers why these historical secrets continue to fascinate.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its storytelling. While previous entries often leaned heavily into relentless action, this instalment embraces a slower, more methodical pace that proves equally gripping. The investigation unfolds through careful discoveries, hidden documents, secret societies, and moral dilemmas instead of endless gunfire or high-speed chases. The tension comes from knowing what is at stake rather than simply how dangerous each moment becomes. McAvoy trusts his readers to appreciate a more cerebral thriller, allowing suspense to build naturally as each revelation peels back another layer of a conspiracy that has survived for more than five centuries. It is a different rhythm than some earlier books, but one that fits the subject matter perfectly.

Series fans will undoubtedly find the emotional heart of the novel in Father Michael Dominic and Hana Sinclair. Their relationship has been quietly developing since the opening novel, making the approach of their wedding feel genuinely earned rather than simply another plot device. Watching these two balance the excitement of matrimony with yet another Vatican mystery is immensely satisfying, particularly because McAvoy never loses sight of the personalities that have made them such enduring protagonists. Their partnership has always been built on mutual respect, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering trust, and those qualities shine brighter than ever here. For readers who have invested thirteen novels in their journey, the emotional payoff is every bit as rewarding as uncovering the latest Vatican secret.

McAvoy also continues to excel at constructing layered supporting casts. Familiar faces return with purpose, while new allies and adversaries slot seamlessly into the larger mythology of the series. Mother Superior Agnese Visconti is an especially memorable antagonist because her motivations extend well beyond greed or power. She genuinely believes she is protecting the Church from dangerous reform, making her ideological conflict with Father Dominic every bit as compelling as the physical danger she presents. Those shades of moral ambiguity elevate the novel well above a conventional conspiracy thriller.

As always, the plotting is meticulously crafted. Twists emerge organically from historical discoveries rather than manufactured surprises, and the seamless blending of documented history with imaginative speculation remains one of McAvoy’s defining talents. Like Steve Berry and Dan Brown at their very best, he leaves readers questioning where the historical record ends and the fiction begins. Yet McAvoy has long established his own voice within this genre, one that values historical authenticity, theological nuance, and emotional investment equally.

Although newcomers could certainly enjoy this novel on its own, I would strongly encourage beginning with the first book. Few series reward long-term readers as generously as the Vatican Secret Archives. Character arcs, recurring relationships, and the gradual expansion of McAvoy’s Vatican mythology have been building for thirteen novels, and this latest entry delivers one of the most satisfying payoffs yet. It is thoughtful rather than explosive, deeply rooted in questions of faith and doctrine, and anchored by two protagonists whose journey together has become just as compelling as the mysteries they solve. Gary McAvoy continues to prove that history’s greatest secrets are often best explored through fiction, and I cannot wait to see what lies hidden in the Vatican’s shadows next.

Kudos, Mr. McAvoy, for an intensity that opens doors to new possibilities with this series or a new offshoot.

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Ryan Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe it is fitting to begin this review of McAvoy’s latest thriller with the exclamation “Oy vey!” – a phrase readers may find themselves repeating throughout the novel. The narrative is filled with more switchbacks, twists, and turns than the winding paths that descend from Hana’s villa in Èze on the Côte d’Azur to the beach below. Just when the story seems to be reaching its conclusion, another revelation emerges, prompting the reader to pause and wonder what has just transpired.

The prologue opens in 1503, the day following the death of Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia). His confessor is unable to grant absolution; a mystery that gradually unfolds as the story progresses. “Follow the Wheel.” The narrative then shifts to the present day, where the whereabouts of the relic of St. Catherine of Alexandria remain unknown, as they have since the pope’s death. Enter Father Michael, Hana, Ian, Sister Teri, Karl, and Lukas: a group whose reunion feels very much like that of a chosen family. They are tasked by the Secretary of State, His Eminence Cardinal Giovanni Severino, with locating the relic, believed to be concealed within a pomegranate-shaped reliquary.

The plot deepens with the introduction of the Convent of Santa Caterina della Ruota, the Sisters of the Sacred Vigil, and Mother Superior Agnese Visconti: figures who add both intrigue and foreboding. A brief but welcome nod to Hildegard of Bingen enriches the narrative further, all unfolding before the story arrives at a central celebratory event: the wedding.

The description of the wedding venue, its participants, and attendees is so vivid it evokes the atmosphere of a Claude Monet painting. The vows themselves are elegant and deeply reflective of Hana and Michael’s characters. McAvoy’s attention to detail immerses the reader fully in the experience: from the planning and travel to the gathering of family and friends, the attendants, the officiant, and the celebratory dinner and dancing. Yet even this joyous occasion is disrupted by an unwelcome and uninvited guest who manages to evade security.

After a brief respite, the narrative resumes its relentless pursuit of the relic of St. Catherine, raising ever more questions. Who controls the black market? Who has infiltrated the curia and the ranks of high-ranking cardinals? Who has been indoctrinated? Who is responsible for the murders and attempted murders and who are the victims? Perhaps most compellingly, who will come forward to confess and bear witness to these crimes? As the story unfolds, readers are left to consider whether the mystery is ever truly resolved and how one responds when confronted with actions that feel morally unconscionable.

Ultimately, the novel invites readers to reflect on its deeper spiritual themes. As one line poignantly states: “The work is never over. And the work has come to me.”

[Jean Lindholm · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Dazzling Look Behind the Scenes of a Vatican Mystery

My first caveat is that I am not Catholic, and have no insight into the workings of the Vatican. However, this was a fascinating peek into how the organization works. And it's also a great murder mystery and a lovely, sweet romance. The thing I loved the most was when the author described the beautiful environment the characters lived in. It's almost as if he was giving us room to breathe every once in awhile, to take in all the beauty. Sometimes, I could even smell the air on a lovely morning he describes. I will read more of Gary McAvoy's books to enjoy the stories and the lovely scenery!

[Rusty Kehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping!

I love the date and time notations, they really give the sense of urgency and that something is dramatically pressing. The story is great and compelling. Having read the series one cannot help but be invested in the lives of all the characters. As a pastor I love the way Mr. McAvoy draws on the history of the church, even her dark recesses. There are a series of unexpected endings as new doors opened waiting for you to walk through.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series of stories just gets better and better. We're told who the main antagonist is, and why, but the more pertinent details are revealed as the narrative unfolds. There are the usual familiar main characters, whose lives are moving on, and the risks and dangers are more subtle. Altogether an intriguing plot, which seems to have led to a new investigation for Father Michael and his new wife.

[Mary Ann Dundon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say?

I love your stories! I attended Catholic schools in Philadelphia, PA
from kindergarten thru my first college degree. I continued my 2 Masters to branch out in other directions as I no longer accepted the faith and experiences I encountered. But I so enjoy your books!

[Sharon Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

love the depth and growth in the series.

Have enjoyed all of the authors Vatican Secret Archive thrillers books.
I liked how Michael and Hanna were humanized, allowing the break in Catholic rules and married

[Josephine Soriano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vatican Archive series

Great reads, please keep them coming. I happy the wedding finally happened . I enjoy the adventure and hope the next one is coming soon. Thank you .

[Jane Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed throughly

Enjoyed this one. Learned a lot about the inner working of the Vatican. Love the artistic descriptions. Mystery at hand was fun. When is the next one expected?

[Sheila Coffey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

I absolutely love this series. The characters have grown in their personalities, friendships and love for one another.
Highly recommend.