The book opens with the main character Brendan Prescott returning to London after leaving in secret during the reign of "Bloody Mary," because he was deemed a possible threat to the realm. Written in a style befitting the piece, the novel is set in 16th century England, shortly after the death of Queen Mary at the beginning of queen Elizabeth's reign. While I am not a huge fan of historically accurate novels or historical novels at all, this story was maddeningly intriguing. Written from Brendan's perspective, you follow the young man who is pledged to the crown on a mission rife with secrecy and treachery. The story was fast paced with many believable and likeable characters. The Queen is stately and at the same time, the writing style allows you to see the cracks in the façade of propriety surrounding her and into the heart of who she is, a calculated and decisive woman. The supporting characters are just the right mixture of oddball and rogue; while the scenery and visual description of London and the surrounding hamlets are spot on. The book took me two sittings to read and for me to carve out that kind of time to read usually doesn't happen. It was worth the effort and believe you me, this book doesn't leave the reader wanting, the climax and decrescendo of the plot left me feeling satisfied, as if I had eaten well and at a fine meal. When all is revealed, the crown and in fact the livelihood of the monarchy is at stake. I do not want to spoil the many twists thrown at the reader but the end of the story is much less what you would expect when reading the beginning. Overall, a fine novel, well written and captivating.
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