But Jane suspects her assignment is much more than a visit from a sympathetic cousin. Is it possible that Elizabeth sent her to speed Mary to her death without the public trial that she knows will forever define the limits of royal power? Together, John and Jane begin to feel genuine sympathy for the Scottish queen and work to finish his invention, protect their son, and save Mary from the scaffold. But can they do that while remaining loyal to the English crown?
~ ~ ~
Fourth book in the series and honestly thought that as I started with book three, there may be some continuity for me.
Unfortunately, the second time around, I wasn't a fan. I guess I found the narrative a bit too fanciful and not truly believable, despite the fact that John Dee was mixed up in some unbelievable things!
As I previously mentioned, I have read much historical fiction set in Elizabethan England, with the focus on her notorious spy network, with characters such as Marlowe and Shakespeare, Walsingham and Cecil; as well as non-fiction on the subject to hand. And whilst this tome had all the essential elements: Elizabethan espionage, treason, rivalry, secret codes, notable nobles - jumping in the middle of a series can detract from anyone's reading pleasure.
The short paragraphs keep the story flowing and a cursory idea of the period in question is always a bonus for the reader delving into something new. There is a curious plot twist at the end which I did enjoy - and definitely kudos for taking on the character of John Dee as the main protagonist. Start at the beginning to ensure greater enjoyment of the work at hand.
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