A Measure of Justice by Mark Sherry (Book Review #2272)

Mark Sherry’s A Measure of Justice is a gripping historical mystery set in late 15th-century Constantinople, blending political intrigue, cross-cultural tension, and a complex murder investigation. The story follows Nicollo Moro, a former Venetian magistrate, who arrives in a city teetering on the edge of chaos as the Ottoman army threatens its gates. Stripped of his previous career advantages, Nicollo must navigate both personal misfortune and the political machinations of Venetians and locals alike.

The narrative begins with a murder that shocks the Venetian community: Alvise Contarini, a naval hero, is found stabbed at a grand party. Nicollo quickly realizes that uncovering the truth is more complicated than it seems. Suspects abound, including Venetian nobles, traders, and mysterious scholars, each with possible motives tied to loyalty, ambition, or religious tensions. Sherry excels in creating a layered investigation, full of red herrings and subtle clues, that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

What makes this novel stand out is its meticulous historical detail. From the ruined streets of Constantinople to Venetian politics and the looming Ottoman threat, Sherry paints a vivid picture of a world in flux. The intersections of power, faith, and personal ambition are explored with nuance, as Nicollo uncovers secret plots, philosophical mysteries, and even elements of sorcery. The tension escalates as Nicollo pieces together Falieri’s pursuit of an ancient philosophical manuscript, Alvise’s mysterious death, and the doge’s secret correspondence, culminating in a satisfying, high-stakes resolution.

Sherry’s protagonist is intelligent, thoughtful, and morally grounded, giving readers a compelling lens through which to experience the drama. A Measure of Justice is a perfect blend of historical context, mystery, and political intrigue, appealing to fans of historical fiction, detective mysteries, and period adventure.

Written by Jeyran Main

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