The Darkest Sin by D.V. Bishop
Book #4 of 30 in my 2025 Reading Challenge
I’m challenging myself to read 30 books in 2025 as part of my journey to reclaim “me time” after years of being a workaholic—and a recent cancer diagnosis that changed everything. Reading has become a lifeline for joy, comfort, and escape. Find out more about my 2025 Reading Challenge.
Why I picked this book
As someone who has explored Florence and even married in Siena, I was immediately drawn to this historical murder mystery set in the 16th century. The setting promised to bring back vivid memories of walking along the iconic Ponte Vecchio and navigating the winding streets of Florence. I was excited to dive into a suspenseful mystery while reconnecting with the city’s timeless charm. Despite being more of a modern thriller fan, the blend of history and intrigue piqued my curiosity, and I was eager to see how the story unfolded.
What’s it about?
In spring 1537, Cesare Aldo, an officer of Florence's feared criminal court, investigates reports of intruders at a convent. The situation escalates when a man's body is found inside, stabbed over two dozen times. Evidence suggests one of the nuns is the killer, but Aldo's investigation uncovers deeper secrets within the convent's walls. Meanwhile, Constable Carlo Strocchi discovers human remains in the River Arno, leading to a separate case that intertwines with Aldo's. As both cases unfold, Aldo and Strocchi navigate treacherous political and personal landscapes to uncover the truth
Escape Index
World: Richly Descriptive
Bishop’s portrayal of Renaissance Florence is deeply immersive. From the narrow alleys to the grandeur of the convent, the city becomes a character in its own right. However, the historical detail sometimes overshadowed the plot, making it hard to fully immerse myself in the story.Vibe: Historical Suspense
The atmosphere is thick with mystery, and the underlying tension keeps you guessing. The pace is slow, but the intrigue of the murder investigation and the secrets lurking beneath the convent walls provide a steady, suspenseful vibe.Pace: Meandering but Engaging
The mystery at the heart of the story kept things moving, though the pacing felt a bit slow at times. There were moments where the plot lagged, but the gradual build-up of tension kept me engaged enough to push through.Feels: Detached Engagement
While the characters are well-drawn, I didn’t feel deeply connected to them. The emotional impact was more intellectual than visceral, as I found myself more focused on unraveling the mystery than empathizing with the characters' journeys.Escape Factor: Mildly Transportive
Although I didn’t feel completely immersed in the world, the sensory details of Florence and the historical setting provided a satisfying escape. The book transported me mentally to the time and place, but I didn’t feel fully lost in the experience.
“While The Darkest Sin offers a rich historical setting, its slow pace and lack of emotional depth may not appeal to those seeking a fast-paced, immersive thriller.”
My takeaway
What I appreciated most about The Darkest Sin was the rich, atmospheric setting of Renaissance Florence. The attention to detail brought the city’s history to life, from the cobblestone streets to the iconic landmarks. However, while I enjoyed the historical context, I found the plot at times dragged, making it harder to stay fully captivated. The pacing, while deliberate, caused the story to feel like more of a slow puzzle than an emotional journey. I enjoyed the experience overall, but I didn’t feel the strong emotional pull that I tend to crave in my reads.
Is this book for you?
Perfect if you’re looking for:
a historical murder mystery with a richly described setting
a slow-burn mystery that emphasises atmosphere over fast-paced thrills
a well-researched story about Renaissance Florence.
If you're looking for a deep emotional connection with characters or a fast-paced thriller, this might not be the book for you. However, it’s a great pick for readers who appreciate historical mysteries and enjoy the tension of a slowly unfolding plot.
Want to read The Darkest Sin?
See if it’s available at Wellington City Libraries, or you can find it online at:
The Nile | Paper Plus | Amazon | Unity Books
No affiliate links—just sharing the love of a good escape.
Let’s chat
Have you read The Darkest Sin? Feel free to drop your review, or share your favorite book recommendation for my 2025 challenge!