I enjoyed this latest story from David Bishop even more than the last one and could hardly put it down. Cesare Aldo is a great protagonist and, despite his interior struggles with his past and his sexuality, he manages to accomplish the almost impossible task of retrieving stolen documents from Venice. The countess Coltello is more prominent in this book and is at the same time charming, cunning and totally ruthless. A very enjoyable read.

It has been a very, very long year I had to survive without D. V. Bishop‘s magnificent Cesare Aldo series, and I’m happy to report that Carnival of Lies was totally worth the wait. To be fair, I consoled myself by visiting Florence in the meantime, which I definitely recommend to anyone to do. It certainly gave me a new level of appreciation for the whole series.

Before we head into the review, a bit of housekeeping: this being the fifth book, some mild spoilers for previous books could happen despite my best efforts, so go forward with that in mind.

A few weeks/months passed since the events in book 4, and Aldo enjoys his new life, helping out where he can, serving justice in his own way, and spending more quality time with Saul. Until, news of an attempt to take Cosimo Medici’s life reaches his ears through the ever-intriguing Contessa Coltello. As it turns out, this assassination conspiracy is only the beginning – not only is Cosimo’s life in danger, but important papers get stolen as well, which could cause trouble for him. Aldo is tasked to take those papers back if he ever wants to return to Florence. He also has to team up with Ottone, the head of Cosimo’s guard, a fact neither man is happy with. What makes things worse is that the chase takes Aldo to Venice, a city he hates and never intended to return to. His collaboration with the Contessa plunges him right into the heart of Venice’s political snakepit, taking him closer to death than he ever was before.

Carnival of Lies, unlike the other books in the Cesare Aldo series, is not a murder mystery – don’t get me wrong, there are murders and deaths aplenty, but neither of them is very mysterious. The focus is more on a heist and some political intrigue set in Carnival time in Venice, when rules are a bit more lax. This allows Bishop to show us a different side of Aldo, to get to know his past a bit more and understand the man he has become. I certainly did not expect him to be so bold and passionate, despite the fact that he’s been living on the edge of the law in all his life. Being gay in an age when such things are illegal can do that to a man. Plus, this was one of my only minor complaints about the series – I wanted to know Aldo on a deeper level, and I finally got it. Poor Cesare really got put through the wrangler in this one. I properly felt sorry for him.

“Campana was right, of course. Antagonizing those with power or too many weapons at their command was a dangerous game – but also an enjoyable one.”

This time around, Contessa Coltello steps up to become a major character, and it’s clear that Bishop had a lot of fun writing her, which shines through the pages. And honestly, she had become one of my favourite characters as well. I would never ever want to be on her bad side. She is ruthless, cunning, and always two steps ahead of everyone else. The fact that in a men controlled world everyone underestimates her – even when they are aware of her reputation – makes it just so much more fun to read her fucking with them. Figuratively. Mostly. At times, I couldn’t predict what her next move would be which also added to the enjoyment level. I don’t know what the next book will bring, but I do hope she’ll make an appearance again.

“Coltello smiled. It was simple to control most men. All one needed to know was their vulnerabilities, and be ruthless enough to exploit them.”

Speaking of appearances, there was one regular character I sorely missed – Strocchi. He’s probably been my favourite character throughout the series, and while I understand the choice that was made for not including him – at least we’ve got an explanation for his absence -, I keep my fingers crossed for his return. I feel like he and Aldo have some unfinished business yet. But then, Aldo has more unfinished business, making me eager to pick up the next book. A shame I need to wait yet another year.

I’ve been singing this series’ praises ever since I started reading and reviewing them, and of course, Carnival of Lies isn’t an exception. Bishop keeps a steady, very high-quality writing, and knows how to keep things fresh. Taking Aldo out to Venice was an excellent choice to shake things up. With Carnival of Lies D. V. Bishop nudged the bar even higher up, establishing the series as one of the must reads of the historical fiction genre.

This is a slightly different book in the series. Instead of investigating a crime, Aldo is caught in an intrigue between Florence and Venice. He is told about a plot to kill Cosimo Medici during which a different crime takes place, Aldo is then sent to Venice to retrieve an item and is told not to return to Florence without it. There are twists and turns, plots and counter plots and a former lover to contend with, It’s a good fun, action story although I missed some of the characters from Florence who are barely in it. The end reveals more about Aldo’s family and feels as though the ext story has been set up. I hope that his character is able to develop a bit more during that. Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.

The latest Cesare Aldo novel finds him still in Florence serving Cosimo de’ Medici in trying to prevent an attempt to kill Cosimo while out hunting. The ensuing events take Aldo to Venice where he works again with the Venetian spymaster Contessa Coltello and where he himself is put in danger. There are vivid descriptions of places in 16th century Venice and, as the title forewarns, it is a place where lies abound so that Aldo doesn’t know who to trust - his friends, accomplices or his family.
This is an enjoyable read for lovers of historical thrillers.
Thank you to the publishers for the ARC.

It seems possible that the unusual setting of DV Bishop’s 16th century Italian crime novels might seem just a bit too ‘left field’ for some prospective readers. If that applies to anyone reading this review the very best advice is to ignore any reservations and take a chance. For readers who decide to dive into the murky world of Florentine politics, and the plots involving the Medici family, history will quite literally come alive, with interesting and convincing stories populated with three dimensional characters and tension that builds to a satisfying conclusion. The author’s writing style means that reading is always a pleasure, with easy dialogue and evocative descriptions that conjure up life in Florence and, in this book in the multi-volume series, in the watery world of Venice when competition between La Serenissima and Firenze was fierce.
Recommended.

I am always comparing D V Bishop's books to C J Sansom. He has the same depth of understanding and ability to describe of the period of history he is writing about, as well as totally absorbing characters. While he states in his afterword that he introduces characters that didn't actual exist, many of his cast are real people from 16th Century Florence and Venice.

I thoroughly enjoyed the political machinations in this cat and mouse chase, with some nice twists which also gives more of an insight into the main character of Aldo and his past.

While the actual mystery itself is solved withing the one book, I do recommend reading the books in order for a much better understanding of the main protagonist and his background. It really helps in understanding why he behaves in a certain way.

D V Bishop is truly skilled at bringing an historic period to vibrant and vivid life. I’ve read a couple of books in this series and truly feel as if I’ve been transported back to mid 16th century Italy, with all the grandeur of the buildings in Florence and Venice. The fabric of these cities is almost palpable and adds to the story. Aldo is such a convincing character. He’s now working freelance and in this case, he has to return to Venice. He’d vowed never to go back, but becomes embroiled in one intrigue after another as he races to find missing personal papers. That could spell disaster for Florence. The odds are stacked against him and he encounters some characters from the past.

Murder, mystery and mayhem; this is a rollicking ride which surprises with twists and turns and the pace rarely lets up. I really loved this story and applaud Bishop for a memorable creation. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early copy.

Another twisty atmospheric historical mystery with Cesare Aldo centre stage.This third novel can be read as a stand alone but it does feature several characters and previous events from earlier novels.
In this story Cesare has to work with the scheming contessa to retrieve Cosimo de Medici’s personal diary. The plot is full of lucky escapes,plots and counter plots .It’s a thrilling ride and hugely entertaining.The setting in Venice with damp buildings and dangerously deep waters adds to the overall ambiance.
My thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for this ARC

Simply, the best Cesare Aldo story yet.

"Carnival of Lies" opens in February 1539. Our hero, Aldo Cesare, no longer works for the Otto, instead opting for the life of a freelance soldier-for-hire. When his sometime employer, Duke Cosimo de’ Medici starts receiving death threats, he hires Aldo for protection. As usual, life for him is not simple, and the attack when it comes, Aldo is drawn into a larger conspiracy, where players including Contessa Valentine Coltello and members of the de'Medici family vie for control of Florence. Furthermore, when private and incriminating papers belonging to the Duke are stolen, he charges Aldo with recovering them at all costs.

Soon Aldo is on the trail of the papers, and is alarmed to discover they are being delivered to Venice - a place he has vowed never to return to. He also learns that he is not the only one after them. The reader is then drawn into a fast-moving and intricate story of revenge, conspiracy and a struggle for power. We swap the sights and smells of Florence for the dank, waterlogged canals of Venice, with smells and shadows all of its own. Aldo is surrounded by enemies, some obvious, others not, and even old friends may not be what they seem. Aldo suffers imprisonment, a dunking in the canals, and effects some daring moves as he infiltrates the very heart of the conspiracy. He is on unfamiliar territory, in more ways than one.

Fans of the series will be glad to know that some favourite characters are back, albeit in diminished roles - his niece, Isabella, secret lover, Saul, and of course, my favourite spymaster Contessa Valentine Coltello, who continues to fascinate. The scenes between her and Aldo are a delight. But this book is all about Aldo, and we learn much more about his past and how he became the man he is. There are several heart-aching scenes that really bring Aldo's life into focus. But mainly, he is running - towards danger, away from danger, and towards a crossroads in his life.

If any of the Cesare Aldo books deserve to be made into a film, it's this one - preferably directed by Christopher McQuarrie, Renny Harlin or Michael Bay. It's definitely the most action-packed yet, and with strong espionage themes. Heartily recommended.

Cesare Aldo is back where he belongs, almost. He’s no longer working for the Otto but is freelancing & trying to stay out of trouble, with no success at all. Venice is the setting of this story, with glimpses of the Florence we’ve come to know from the previous novels.

I enjoyed this story, with a few caveats. The ‘baddies’ are almost pantomime like, I expected them to twirl their moustaches while they were being dastardly. I found the Contessa & her feminine wiles annoying, she just doesn’t resonate with me. Other than that, the story was well told, with various returning characters & more insight into Aldo’s past. I can really see these books as a beautifully shot series for Netflix - can someone sort that out?

I love this book and I love this series. It is so strong and detailed yet flows so effortlessly. Loved the move to Venice in this one from the usual Florence although there is so much to discover about Florence still with all the dark corners and alleyways. This was a mission in volving spies, revolt and revenge and i ATE IT UP

PLEASE let us have a film of every book. Although they wouldn't be as excellent as the books themselves.

A fantastic historical book that captures the attention and refuses to let go. From Florence to Venice, this is a story of betrayal, revenge, theft, attempted assassination, murder, the nature of justice and the lies one spins to create a narrative that will go down in history.

A blend of fictional and real historical characters pepper the page, all of them engaging - even the ones you don't like. They feel like real people, and it is so easy to get drawn into them and the maelstrom that is swirling around them all, with plenty of different motivations and desires.

A mix of a chase, a murder investigation - albeit one you're trying to avoid - and a series of heists, this is a fast paced book that will keep you turning the pages.

I also adore the queer representation within this book. Not only Cesare, but the Contessa and the gender fluid boundaries that shift and blur in Venice, that most open of cities.

The Contessa steals this book however. She is an absolute delight to behold, and effortlessly holds the attention in every scene she is in. I would be more than happy with every book focused on her.

Aldo is back ........ no longer a policeman he is now a Private Investigator/Enforcer helping those
who need it most , those often ignored by their rulers .
But those who matter won't leave him be , he is called to investigate a plot against the Duke by Cosimo de Medici
- a summons he cannot say no to . A case that brings back the Contessa Coltello into his life , a woman hard
to forget for a variety of reasons .
The case takes him from Florence to Venice , a city he swore never to return to ..... old betrayals are
at the forefront of his mind . Just who can he trust ? what will be the cost ? The Contessa has her own agenda ... will it align with
his own quest ?
The Author is a master at writing Renaissance murder mysteries , characters leap of the page , the historical details are full of colour and life , drawing the reader into a world politics , betrayals with a well written storyline - I cannot recommend this series enough and look
forward to the next book

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

“Carnival of Lies” is a gripping historical thriller that cements D. V. Bishop as a master of Renaissance intrigue. Cesare Aldo is a brilliant protagonist—his secret life in 16th-century Florence adds layers of depth and tension to an already thrilling narrative. In this installment, Aldo is thrust into the shadowy world of Venetian politics, where deception is an art form and danger lurks behind every mask.

The stakes couldn’t be higher as Aldo races to recover a stolen journal filled with secrets that could topple the Medici dynasty. The novel is rich with political maneuvering, deadly conspiracies, and atmospheric detail that transports the reader straight to the bustling streets and candlelit palazzos of Renaissance Venice.

One of the book’s standout elements is Contessa Coltella, the Venetian spy mistress who makes for a formidable and fascinating adversary and ally. The interplay between her and Aldo crackles with tension, making every encounter a delight to read. Bishop’s deep understanding of the period shines through, blending historical accuracy with page-turning suspense.

Superb, immersive, and utterly unputdownable—I’ll be going back to read the earlier books in the series. If you love historical thrillers with depth, intelligence, and razor-sharp intrigue, Carnival of Lies is a must-read.

Full of danger, strategy, humour and atmosphere, ‘Carnival of Lies’ races away from Renaissance Florence to the intrigue and peril of Venice during Carnival. There are two main characters, Aldo: resourceful, ex police and mercenary who is loyal, loving and likeable. And the brilliant Countess, strategic, highly intelligent and beautiful who has to outwit those men who want her power and are determined to destroy her. Will this unlikely couple survive Venice? And if so, at what cost? I am new to this series and now want to read more of Aldo’s adventures. This book (5 I believe) never made me feel I was missing out by not having read previous books in this series.

Another twisty thriller rich in historical detail by DV Bishop which sees Aldo facing enemies and treachery in a city he had sworn nerver to return to - Venice.
No longer a member of the Otto, the Florentine police, Aldo has turned private enforcer, helping those too poor or inconsequential to be noticed by those who rule Florence. But he can't stay under the radar for long, called upon to help investigate a plot against the Duke and his wife, a plot which sees him once again a reluctant ally of the intriguing and devious Contessa Coltello. Meanwhile, both in Florence and Venice, his past haunts him, old betrayals feeling very fresh indeed.

Fascinating and very readable, I think this is the best in the series yet. Highly recommended.

Cesare Aldo has left the Otto but he hasn’t retired by any means. Freelancing as a kind of Florentine private detective he is now engaged by Cosimo d’Medici to investigate a life-threatening rumour. Aldo’s powers of observation, natural curiosity and skill as an investigator soon embroil him in an intriguing mission to recover Cosimo’s private journal which takes him to Venice in the company of Venetion spymaster Contessa Coltello. This story draws on events from Aldo’s previous outings, but necessary detail is subtly woven into the narrative, although it might well tempt the reader to explore earlier books in the series. The writing is steeped in historical detail, the characters are colourful and full of life and there is plenty of action and a good meaty plot to keep the reader entertained. Put James Bond into hose and doublet and this is what you get!
I am looking forward to the next book already as the story ends with unanswered questions and the mystery of Aldo’s past yet to be revealed. Can’t wait!

Huge thanks to Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Really enjoyed this book , a real romp in Venice/Florence in the 1530s. A very easy read about some very interesting characters

I really enjoy Aldo's world of intrigue, lies and secrets! His new adventure(s!) in this novel enabled me to fully get immersed into a journey paved with action, murder and betrayals. I like Aldo's character, his sense of justice and his simply being human with weaknesses and strengths. A great plot leaving me often riveting and wondering whom should Aldo trust ??? I loved reading about Venice and its palazzi as well as getting some idea of what Carnival felt like in the XVIth century! A great series!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

The fifth book in the series sees Cesare Aldo travel to Venice . The writing is excellent and I could almost smell the odours of the canals and damp palazzos. The tension builds during this adventure with different characters in the plot generally looking out for themselves! Anyone new to this series by DVBishop is in for a treat. Look forward to the next adventure. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to review.