ISBN: 0-7434-1030-0 Order from: Amazon.com
A well-crafted historical mystery with well-drawn characters, and a mixture of intellectual detection and physical suspense, as well as an interesting protagonist.
Reviewed by David on December 27, 2003
Genre: Mystery (Hisotrical, Intrigue, Elizabethan England)
Synopsis: Ursula Blanchard, a well-bred lady of uncertain parentage has gained her power mostly by her own wits and courage. While treasuring the company of her daughter, and counting the days until returning to her noble French husband, she chafes at her pastoral existance. For Ursula is addicted to the dangers, intrigue and the play of wits of the deadly and beautiful court of her patron, Queen Elizabeth.
And once more, the summons comes, as Her Majesty's upcoming visit to Cambridge requires an unobstrusive visit by a court agent to check for any signs of danger to the Queen. Ursula—a wife, mother, and noble lady—is just the person for the job.
Full Review: The well-researhed mystery features an interesting protagonist with a thoroughly modern dilemma: how can a woman be a loving wife, a worthy mother, and have a successful career? Especially when the career is as deadly as Ursula's? The politics are a heady, but deadly brew. Ursula's assignment will either kill her—or send others to the hangman.
The plot moves well, and the interesting protagonist, along with difficult and colorful supporting and opposing chacaters make it a satisfying read. The scope of the plot seems quite narrow, however, with a very small number of people forming most of the investigation.
Aside from the minor quibble, it's a good book, with Ursula's dilemma's, dangers, challenges and accomplishments as the major attraction.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 6; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 5; Originality: 5.5;
Copyright date 2002, Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star), December 2002, Mass market paperback, 308 pages
ISBN: 0-7434-1030-0 Order from: Amazon.com