Rise of the Black Cross

Freeman (The Blackwell Files) kicks off a new series set in Renaissance-era Italy with this stylish espionage thriller. Ship captain Niccolo Corsini is summoned by banker Lorenzo de’ Medici, the de facto ruler of Florence, after a fleet of ships bearing the mysterious sign of a black cross on their sails attacks the coast of San Vincenzo. Believing that a flotilla of Florence’s armed ships would be quickly overwhelmed by the unknown assailants, Medici hopes that Corsini’s merchant vessel will be able to get near enough to the fleet to learn who’s leading it and what their intentions are. The mission proves hazardous when Corsini’s own crew is infiltrated by a spy for the mysterious fleet. Eventually, Corsini grows conflicted about his role as an enforcer for the often-cruel Medici. Freeman brings the period to vivid life (though a cameo from Leonardo da Vinci feels somewhat out of place) and provides enough runway to keep readers on the hook for a sequel. Historical fans should give this a look. (Self-published)