The Venetian Heretic is the start of a new historical fiction series from the impressively prolific Christian Cameron, whose excellent sci-fi and fantasy work I’ve spoken about here before. Amusingly, at one point I suggested his Deep Black was reminiscent of 16th century Venice, - and here we are, a year or so later, looking at another of his stories, set in, well, 17th century Venice. What’s a hundred years between us, eh? In any event, this story begins with professional swordsman Richard Hughes, whose chance rescue of someone in trouble on the canal-lined streets of Venice leads quickly to mystery, murder, and mayhem. Well, and duelling, conspiracy, and murder. And, well, some theater. Hughes is paddling in the edges of deep water, and inclined perhaps to get more than a little wet.

Hughes is the central character, but if I’m honest, the most vividly realised one is Venice herself, the Italian city on the lagoon, at a time when she was less tourist trap, and more incipient global power.The marble bridges over dark waters are described in vivid detail, and the politics that embraces everyone, from the nobility to the gondoleers, twines through the water and the soaring buildings towering beside them. It’s a city of ideas, and of brutal realities, where blood is spilled as quickly as a breath, and where art, where opera is as important as swordplay, and sometimes just as deadly. The prose is rich and affectionate, and brings the city to life, with a warmth, a depth and an energy that is impossible to deny. Cameron’s Venice has a sense of place, of history, and feels at once grand and intimately human.

Onto that stage, no pun intended, steps Richard Hughes - duelist, occasional Englishman, a man who would, on the whole, rather not go swimming in uncomfortably deep waters - metaphorical or otherwise. But he’s also thoughtful, intelligent, passionate, and loyal to his friends and his own sense of honour. Which makes for a likeable protagonist, and one whose penchant for getting into bigger and bigger trouble, following the ripples of larger and larger events to see where they lead, is extremely compelling reading. Hughes is a small fish in the great sea of state, passing on information where he can to help his friends or himself survive on the edges of Society, but he’s also someone striving to do better, to be a version of themselves they can look up to in the mirror. Hughes is a businessman, yes, a killer, absolutely, but one with a code, with ethics, with virtues. Whether fHughes is a good man is definitely open to question as the story opens, but as the web of influence, murder and politics grows ever more byzantine, his bravery, loyalty and firm friendships become ever more important.. He’s a charming, funny protagonist, whose bouts of pragmatic cynicism are backed by moments of genuine heroism, one whose flaws highlight his virtues, and whose skills with a blade are backed up by a thoughtful investigative mind.Just as well, since he spend smooch of the story being a (variably willing) detective of sorts. In this, he’s aided by a rich cast of men and women who never feel less than real themselves. SOme of them are historical figures, others…less so, but they all have enough detail, enough depth, enough truth in them to be compelling in their own right.

Speaking of detective work - well, this story is a mystery at heart, I think. With murder and mystery at the centre of the narrative, there’s more twists and turns here than , well, between the canals of Venice itself. There’s duels, and opera, and assassins, and religion (and the Inquisition). There’s a dash of romance, and more than one dark moment on dark nights. There’s explosions and politics and passion and more than a little family drama. This is a story with, well, layers. It rewards careful reading, and it is also bloody difficult to stop reading once you get started. I had a great time with Hughes and his Venice, and I suspect you will too. Give it a whirl!

After being freed from a French galley, Richard Hughes is far from England and is making a precarious living as a sword master. He is pulled into dangerous situation involving a scandalous political libretto for a new opera, one which criticises the Catholic church. Now balancing the needs of his various masters, the Venetian Republic, the Church and his original protector, Hughes needs to find a rogue assassin.
This is a rather fun read as it is full of swashbuckling action, high and low life and a suitably complicated plot. Obviously, Cameron is an experienced writer of historical fiction and this shows through the subtlety of the details of life in Venice towards the end of it's period of glory.

The plot was well-crafted and the characters felt authentic. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after the final page.

Thank you NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group for this eCopy to review

As I stepped into the vibrant world of The Venetian Heretic, I was immediately captivated by the allure of 17th-century Venice, a city shimmering with the dazzling festivities of Carnevale, yet brimming with shadows of intrigue and danger. Christian Cameron masterfully immerses the reader in this richly detailed historical setting, weaving a tale that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

The story follows Richard Hughes, a swordsman seeking simplicity but instead finding himself entangled in the city's labyrinth of espionage, organized crime, and high-stakes drama. Hughes teams up with the enigmatic Phillip de Chambray, whose wit and courage stand out as she navigates Venice while concealing her true identity. Together, they confront a conspiracy that threatens to devastate the opera and Venice itself.

Cameron’s vivid descriptions brought the city to life for me, the bustling marketplaces, masked revellers, and grand opera houses all felt so real. The characters, too, were wonderfully dynamic. Hughes is a relatable protagonist whose courage and personal struggles resonate deeply, and Phillip is a refreshing portrayal of strength and complexity.

Overall, it’s a richly textured historical novel that combines intrigue, action, and thoughtful reflection. Perfect for anyone who loves history brought vividly to life, this book is an adventure through the masked mysteries of Venice.

The Venetian Heretic of the title is Richard Hughes, exiled Cavalier turned fencing master, whose hope for a quiet life and a few silver coins is upended when he's thrust into the dangerous world of Venetian politics and religion in 1651.

Venice itself is a main character: glittering, treacherous, seductive, twisty and stinking of fish and canal-water. The large cast of nobles, low-lifes, crooks and townspeople jostle for money, position, and, if they're lucky, love and pleasure. Beneath La Serenissima's mask it's a scramble for survival - even the city itself is threatened by the Turks and, possibly, Rome.

Richard starts out investigating the murder of a woman he's attracted to, but her death seems to be linked to an initially bewildering number of other goings-on involving a seemingly unlinked number of people. Who can Richard trust? The Franciscan friar and his swordsman sidekick? His mysterious fellow lodger, the endlessly-scribbling, secretive Filippo? His former fellow galley-slaves? The gang leader linked by family to the opera? The aristocrat with the dangerous friends?Certainly not the elusive but deadly Red Mask.

This is Christian Cameron, so there is a lot of fencing and its associated jargon, but the author has the skills to keep the swordplay interesting, rather than getting bogged down in details. And, as you'd expect, the pace is as fast as a boat-chase through the waterways of Venice.

I devoured this twisty, inventive, often amusing novel with its vivid bringing-to-life of the great city and the disparate characters that lived there, or were passing through, leaving their mark.

If I had a gripe it would be that Richard seems to accept his growing (financial) fortunes too easily; he seems to forget, after the first few purses, how poor he was at the beginning. But that's a minor point.

A thoroughly-researched, thoroughly enjoyable start to a new series. I'm looking forward to the next.

Christian Cameron’s The Venetian Heretic transports you to the vibrant world of 17th-century Venice. Having visited Venice a few years ago, I was eagerly anticipating this novel—and it did not disappoint.

The story follows Richard Hughes, an English swordsman seeking a new life in Venice, only to find himself quickly entangled in the city’s dangerous politics and intrigues. Alongside a mysterious woman concealing her true identity, Hughes faces threats that not only jeopardises himself and the few friends he has but also the burgeoning art form of opera. Can Hughes survive or will his actions ultimately put the city itself at risk.

Hughes might just be my favourite Cameron character—previously, that title belonged to Sir William Gold, but this novel is that good. What truly stands out is Cameron’s meticulous attention to historical detail, which completely immerses you in the opulence, intrigue, and grit of Venice. The first-person narration adds an extra layer of authenticity, making every experience feel immediate and personal.

I loved the vivid descriptions of Venice—the masked revelries, the opera, the dark alleyway chase, and the closed quarter sword fights, all of which provide a rich and atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding drama. This is told through Richard Hughes’s perspective which gives you a very unique and insightful view of Venice. As always, Cameron’s characters are layered, flawed, and utterly believable. The plot is packed with espionage, murder, crime, and even a touch of romance, keeping the momentum going with unexpected twists. And then there’s the thrilling entrance of none other than Charles de Batz de Castelmore—if you don’t know who he is, look him up. Trust me.

I can’t remember the last time I anticipated a sequel to a book as much as The Venetian Heretic. It is a masterful blend of historical fiction and mystery, further cementing Christian Cameron as one of the very best in the genre. This is an outstanding addition to his body of work, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

My thanks to both NetGalley and the publisher Orion publishing group for a free eBook and an honest opinion.

The Venetian Heretic is a vivid plunge into the glittering, perilous world of 17th-century Venice—a city where opulence masks intrigue, and beauty often hides a blade. Set against the backdrop of Carnevale, where masks are worn both for festivity and concealment, Christian Cameron weaves a rich tapestry of espionage and murder, all anchored by two compelling leads.

At the heart of the story is Richard Hughes, a war-worn swordsman seeking a quieter life. But Venice has other plans. What begins as a simple act—translating a prisoner’s testimony—quickly pulls him into a labyrinth of secret societies, religious tension, and shifting political alliances. Alongside him is Phillip de Chambray, a fiercely intelligent and resourceful woman with secrets of her own. Their dynamic—grounded in mutual respect and sharpened by danger—adds emotional depth to the high-stakes adventure unfolding around them.

Cameron’s attention to historical detail is impeccable. From the ornate opera houses to the shadowy corridors of power, every setting feels immersive and alive. Venice itself becomes a character—seductive, mysterious, and just as treacherous as the people navigating its canals. The emerging art of opera plays a central role, not just as background, but as a powerful symbol of transformation, capable of bridging divides even as enemies close in.

The plot is layered and fast-moving, full of betrayals, shifting loyalties, and moments of genuine tension. There’s a lot to keep track of—a broad cast, multiple factions, and a tangle of political motivations—but it all pays off. And through it all, Cameron threads thoughtful themes: the cost of survival in a divided world, the masks we wear, and the power of art to challenge—and perhaps even change—the status quo.

Whether you're here for the sword fights, the political intrigue, or the thrill of opera taking flight amidst chaos, The Venetian Heretic delivers on all fronts. It’s a richly textured historical novel that balances action with heart, and history with timeless human struggles.

Perfect for readers who enjoy immersive historical fiction with depth, danger, and a flair for the dramatic.

A first-class trip to 17th Century Venice.

"The Venetian Heretic" opens in Venice, in 1651. It's the time of the Carnevale and the city is bustling. Richard Hughes, an Englishman, former soldier and galley-slave, ekes out a living teaching swordsmanship to anyone who can pay. He is a protestant in a Catholic country, but seeks a peaceful life. However when he is awakened in the middle of the night and summoned to the offices of the Inquisition, his life suddenly turns upside down. As an English-speaker he is requested to translate the testimony of an English prisoner, and with that his troubles begin.

Swiftly, Richard is drawn into the murky world of Venetian politics and religion. He finds himself sought after and employed by several warring factions, and has to tread carefully. Venice is a turbulent city, and is surrounded by those who covet it. Religious fervour abounds and tempers run high. And when people around him start dying, Richard has to decide who to trust. His adventures take him from the canals to the Aegean Sea, gaining friends and enemies along the way. We slowly learn that Richard is a more complex character than we thought, and it's fun to uncover some of his past.

The story is full of real-life people - The Chevalier Charles Stuart and his Italian wife, Francesco Morosini, and Giovani Francesco Loredan, writer and influential politician. There's also a huge cast of colourful characters, from a closet homosexual dance teacher, a brazen opera singer, and a mysterious young boy who attaches himself to Richard. There's a lot to keep track of! It also features several groups who played key roles in the fight for power in 17th Century Venice. The Incogniti, the Libertini, and the church. But it is Venice, with its canals and bridges, its Opera houses and its masque balls that is the star On the surface, a place of enlightenment but below the surface a quagmire of deceit and treachery.

Several themes flow through the book, but it's the slow rise of Opera, and its links to art and commerce which is prominent. We see how it grows and effects all levels of Venetian society. Rousing stuff!

This book will appeal to fans of SJ Parris, D.V. Bishop and Douglas Skelton. Heartily recommended.

An early contender for my book of the year. What an incredible read. This is Christian Cameron at his imperious best. He breathes such life into 17th century Venice and this wonderful cast of characters. The writing is phenomenal, the plot is brilliant. I was immediately drawn in and didn’t want this book to end. Historical fiction at its very best. Grab a copy of this when it comes out next month, you won’t be disappointed

Very good! Read this in two days! I couldn't put it down. Cameron tries a different era than normal but the pacing was excellent and I loved the characters!

The Venetian Heretic by Christian Cameron is a masterfully crafted historical novel that immerses readers in the opulent yet treacherous world of 17th-century Venice. With its rich detail, intricate plotting, and compelling characters, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, espionage, and tales of intrigue.

The story is set in Venice, a city of dazzling beauty and dark secrets, where the grandeur of opera houses and palaces hides a world of espionage, organized crime, and murder. Richard Hughes, a swordsman seeking a simpler life, finds himself drawn into the city’s dangerous underbelly when he teams up with Phillip de Chambray, a remarkable woman forced to conceal her true identity. Together, they navigate the murky waters of European politics, uncovering a plot that threatens not only the burgeoning world of opera but also the very fabric of Venetian society.

One of the standout features of The Venetian Heretic is its richly detailed setting. Cameron brings 17th-century Venice to life with vivid descriptions of its canals, palaces, and masked balls, creating a backdrop that is as enchanting as it is perilous. The contrast between the city’s surface beauty and its hidden dangers adds depth and tension to the narrative, making Venice itself a character in the story.

Richard Hughes is a compelling protagonist, whose skills as a swordsman and his desire for a quieter life make him both relatable and intriguing. Phillip de Chambray is equally fascinating, with her intelligence, resourcefulness, and the complexities of her hidden identity adding layers to her character. The dynamic between the two is electric, filled with mutual respect, tension, and a touch of romance.

The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The stakes are high, with the fate of Venice and the world of opera hanging in the balance, and the tension builds steadily as Hughes and de Chambray uncover the truth behind the conspiracy. The blend of historical detail, political intrigue, and personal drama creates a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Thematically, The Venetian Heretic explores issues of identity, power, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. The novel also delves into the transformative power of art and the ways in which it can inspire and unite people, even in the face of danger. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

If there is a minor critique, it is that some readers may find the large cast of characters and the complex political landscape a bit challenging to keep track of. However, this is a small quibble in an otherwise masterfully crafted novel.

The Venetian Heretic is a standout addition to Christian Cameron’s body of work, offering a compelling blend of historical fiction, espionage, and adventure. It is a story that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.

A richly detailed and thrilling historical novel, The Venetian Heretic is a must-read for fans of intrigue, adventure, and the transformative power of art.