November, 1558: Elizabeth I has ascended the throne but the first days of her reign are already fraught with turmoil, the kingdom weakened by past strife and her ability to rule uncertain.
When Brendan Prescott, her intimate spy, returns to court at the new queen’s behest, he soon finds himself thrust into a deadly gambit against his old foe, Robert Dudley. But Elizabeth has an even more dangerous assignation in store for him when her favoured lady-in-waiting, Lady Parry, vanishes in Yorkshire.
Sent from court to a crumbling manor that may hold the key to Lady Parry’s disappearance, Brendan becomes the quarry of an elusive stranger with a vendetta- one that could expose both Brendan’s own secret past and a long-hidden mystery that will bring about Elizabeth’s doom.
When Brendan Prescott, her intimate spy, returns to court at the new queen’s behest, he soon finds himself thrust into a deadly gambit against his old foe, Robert Dudley. But Elizabeth has an even more dangerous assignation in store for him when her favoured lady-in-waiting, Lady Parry, vanishes in Yorkshire.
Sent from court to a crumbling manor that may hold the key to Lady Parry’s disappearance, Brendan becomes the quarry of an elusive stranger with a vendetta- one that could expose both Brendan’s own secret past and a long-hidden mystery that will bring about Elizabeth’s doom.
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Reviews
A fascinating tale of young Elizabeth in danger at her sister's court. Fast-paced and exciting, with beautifully researched historical details and a most engaging hero, this story is so vivid you feel you are there!
In Gortner's skillful hands, plots and counterplots come to seething life . . . Lovers of Tudor history and suspense fiction will be riveted by this swift-paced, sexy, enthralling novel.
Gortner has done it again! Intrigue at the Tudor court never looked more lethal than in his capable hands, as forbidden desires and deadly rivalries turn sister against sister and plunge our bold hero into a labyrinth of deceit. Full of breathtaking action, dark twists, and unexpected revelations, this is an unputdownable read!'
Gortner handles action with aplomb, adding a riveting, fast-paced thriller to the crowded genre of Tudor fiction.
Even Tudor fans who know the main players and historical backdrop will be captivated by Gortner's storytelling and his engaging hero . . . Grabbing reader interest [with] the quick pace and lush historical references. This novel is both entertaining and thoughtful.
Brilliantly executed plot and three-dimensional characters . . . highly recommended.
An exciting, vividly rendered story of intrigue and espionage.
If you're looking for a book that will pull you back into the Tudors, this one is a good choice.