A review by bethany_t
A Death in the Venetian Quarter by Alan Gordon
4.0
Once again we roam the streets of Constantinople with Fools' Guild jester Feste (aka Theo) and his now-pregnant wife, Aglaia (aka Claudia or Viola). This time, Feste and Aglaia are charged with uncovering the murderer of a Venetian silk merchant as ships of the Fourth Crusade are waiting to besiege the city. I found this book fascinating as it recounted the events of 1203 that ultimately led to the eventual Sack of Constantinople. One of my favorite things about this book was the dual POV between Feste and Aglaia. I found it successful most of the time, though occasionally confusing. I also loved all of the other Fools' Guild members in this, with the stilt-walking Plossus being my favorite.
I also liked that this book drew from Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" again, reuniting Aglaia (Viola) with her brother Sebastian, though the reunion was marred by the battle and other tensions.
The mystery was fine, but I did find some of it to be a bit confusing until the very last pages when it was better explained. Ultimately, I found the utter chaos of Constantinople more interesting than the mystery. Honestly, this time period is completely bonkers.
Verdict
Another solid addition to this mystery series. I'm ready for the next one!
So, who would enjoy this book?
Any medieval mystery lovers will devour this series.
I also liked that this book drew from Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" again, reuniting Aglaia (Viola) with her brother Sebastian, though the reunion was marred by the battle and other tensions.
The mystery was fine, but I did find some of it to be a bit confusing until the very last pages when it was better explained. Ultimately, I found the utter chaos of Constantinople more interesting than the mystery. Honestly, this time period is completely bonkers.
Verdict
Another solid addition to this mystery series. I'm ready for the next one!
So, who would enjoy this book?
Any medieval mystery lovers will devour this series.