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Available
Series
Description
When several of the queen's maids of honor are found dead, rumors of black magic abound. Elizabeth calls upon her personal astrologer, John Dee, and Giordano Bruno to solve the crimes. While Dee turns to a mysterious medium claiming knowledge of the murders, Bruno fears that something far more sinister is at work.
User reviews
LibraryThing member bookczuk
In a previous life, even before my nursing career, I majored in history. I still love a novel that immerses me in the past, and Elizabethan England remains a favorite time period, so it was with great to dive right in, thanks to the Early Review program at Library Thing and the generosity of the
There were so many unexpected things that delighted me about this book. I'm not even going to include good plot and good writing, even though it had both. Firstly, Giordano Bruno is a real historical character, who was a Italian Dominican friar, philosopher, mathematician, astronomer and was excommunicated for a couple of those things. But historically, he is fascinating. Normally, I cringe at books that incorporate real people into novels, but the author was tactful and skillful, keeping her story believable. Elizabeth Regina appears only in the periphery, but other historical greats do show up, within context.
Astronomy a topic oft discussed in our household, and while we only give so much credence to Saturn in Retrograde, the idea of the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in alignment, playing a significant part in the book, was of interest, as was the looming collision of those those two other stars, Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots.
The mention of William Byrd and his music was also coincidental. I'm in a choir which just performed his astonishingly beautiful Mass for four voices. The mention of Byrd, who was Catholic in a time when people lost their heads for such things, and the interplay of the conflict between the two churches added another element to the mix.
Though this was the second book in a series, I didn't feel out of my depth jumping in. Enough back story was alluded to so that I wasn't lost, but neither was the earlier book spoiled should I decide to read it.
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publisher. There were so many unexpected things that delighted me about this book. I'm not even going to include good plot and good writing, even though it had both. Firstly, Giordano Bruno is a real historical character, who was a Italian Dominican friar, philosopher, mathematician, astronomer and was excommunicated for a couple of those things. But historically, he is fascinating. Normally, I cringe at books that incorporate real people into novels, but the author was tactful and skillful, keeping her story believable. Elizabeth Regina appears only in the periphery, but other historical greats do show up, within context.
Astronomy a topic oft discussed in our household, and while we only give so much credence to Saturn in Retrograde, the idea of the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in alignment, playing a significant part in the book, was of interest, as was the looming collision of those those two other stars, Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots.
The mention of William Byrd and his music was also coincidental. I'm in a choir which just performed his astonishingly beautiful Mass for four voices. The mention of Byrd, who was Catholic in a time when people lost their heads for such things, and the interplay of the conflict between the two churches added another element to the mix.
Though this was the second book in a series, I didn't feel out of my depth jumping in. Enough back story was alluded to so that I wasn't lost, but neither was the earlier book spoiled should I decide to read it.
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LibraryThing member MaryinHB
This is a beautifully written, historical fiction thriller that takes place during the rule of Queen Elizabeth and in her court. If you are a fan of this era and know a bit about the whispers of occult and astrology that occurred during her reign, you are really going to enjoy this story of
The second half of the book really moves the plot forward and will have you guessing about who is behind the murderous plot and the loyalty of Queen Elizabeth to her trusted companions which may prove to not be in her best interest. I think my favorite part of the whole story is the word play and dialogue of Bruno which is so much fun to read. There is at times an overwhelming amount of historical detail which I find fascinating, but might bog down other readers. The ending caught me completely by surprise and I will now have to go back and read Heresy since I enjoyed this one so much.
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conspiracy and mystery. This is probably one of my favorite time periods to read about since it truly was an age of discovery and that these ideas were often described as heresy and treason. Yet, in the world of the ruling class, they were quietly relied upon. When there is a murder of the queen's ladies, Elizabeth calls in her astrologer and a former monk named Bruno to help solve the murders. Bruno first appears as an investigator and spy for the French King Henri in Parris' first book, Heresy. The story also touches upon the rivalry and conspiracy of Queens Mary and Elizabeth.The second half of the book really moves the plot forward and will have you guessing about who is behind the murderous plot and the loyalty of Queen Elizabeth to her trusted companions which may prove to not be in her best interest. I think my favorite part of the whole story is the word play and dialogue of Bruno which is so much fun to read. There is at times an overwhelming amount of historical detail which I find fascinating, but might bog down other readers. The ending caught me completely by surprise and I will now have to go back and read Heresy since I enjoyed this one so much.
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LibraryThing member fyrefly98
Summary: It's 1583, the year of the Great Conjunction: a rare astronomical event that foretells a time of great upheaval. The word on the streets of London is that the Great Conjunction will result in the death of Queen Elizabeth and the end of the Tudor rule - a result that would certainly please
Review: Clever, curious, and connected to some very important historical figures, Giordano Bruno is a natural fit for the role of historical detective and spy. With Bruno as her leading man, Parris has once again delivered a mystery that's engaging, intelligent, and well-grounded in historical fact. She does a wonderful job bringing both the historical backdrop and its inhabitants to life, and while I personally preferred the Oxford setting of Heresy, Parris is equally adept at depicting Elizabethan London.
While for the most part Prophecy moved along well enough, I did get somewhat tired of the politico-religious talk by about the midway point. I understand that tensions between Protestants and Catholics were very real, and very important at the time, but I felt like they were being dwelt on more than they needed to be, and that they were distracting some of the focus from the murders. I also would have been happier if the plot had put a little more emphasis on the arcane nature of the deaths, and thrown us a few more red herrings - mysteries where the detective spends time chasing leads that seem likely but don't pan out are somehow more satisfying than mysteries where the detective isn't sure what's going on until right at the end. This was also the second book I read in a row where the otherwise very intelligent main character suddenly became blind to other people's shifty behavior right when it was convenient for the plot.
But in the grand scheme of things, my complaints are pretty minor. This book, like Heresy, did what I want my historical mysteries to do: get me immersed in the time period, engage my attention, and keep me reading. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: Parris's mysteries are a lot of fun, and definitely recommended for fans of historical mysteries, or of Tudor historical fiction more generally. While Prophecy does make a few references to the events of Heresy, they're not at all interdependent books, and could easily be read separately.
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Catholics across the country who long for an end to Protestant rule. The Queen's spymaster, Sir Francis Walsingham, suspects that some of those Catholics may be taking a more active role, however, so he once again enlists the ex-monk Giordano Bruno to go undercover into the house of the French ambassador to investigate. But when one of the Queen's ladies-in-waiting is found murdered with astrological symbols cut into her skin, the stakes are suddenly raised. Now Bruno must determine whether or not her death is part of a Catholic plot to overthrow the Queen... or something even more sinister.Review: Clever, curious, and connected to some very important historical figures, Giordano Bruno is a natural fit for the role of historical detective and spy. With Bruno as her leading man, Parris has once again delivered a mystery that's engaging, intelligent, and well-grounded in historical fact. She does a wonderful job bringing both the historical backdrop and its inhabitants to life, and while I personally preferred the Oxford setting of Heresy, Parris is equally adept at depicting Elizabethan London.
While for the most part Prophecy moved along well enough, I did get somewhat tired of the politico-religious talk by about the midway point. I understand that tensions between Protestants and Catholics were very real, and very important at the time, but I felt like they were being dwelt on more than they needed to be, and that they were distracting some of the focus from the murders. I also would have been happier if the plot had put a little more emphasis on the arcane nature of the deaths, and thrown us a few more red herrings - mysteries where the detective spends time chasing leads that seem likely but don't pan out are somehow more satisfying than mysteries where the detective isn't sure what's going on until right at the end. This was also the second book I read in a row where the otherwise very intelligent main character suddenly became blind to other people's shifty behavior right when it was convenient for the plot.
But in the grand scheme of things, my complaints are pretty minor. This book, like Heresy, did what I want my historical mysteries to do: get me immersed in the time period, engage my attention, and keep me reading. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: Parris's mysteries are a lot of fun, and definitely recommended for fans of historical mysteries, or of Tudor historical fiction more generally. While Prophecy does make a few references to the events of Heresy, they're not at all interdependent books, and could easily be read separately.
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LibraryThing member dorolerium
Picking up a few months after Heresy left off, Prophecy is another great murder mystery/thriller starring Giordano Bruno as our unlikely detective and spy all rolled up into one. Rather than being set in a more remote location like Heresy, this one takes place primarily in London and is more
Unlike a lot of historical fiction, this one has nearly no romance and is primarily about finding the murderer of Cecily Ashe, as well as trying to uncover the latest plot to overthrow Elizabeth and restore Mary Stuart to the throne. Are the two things related? Is it mere coincidence that they happened at the same time?
I really liked that although Elizabeth is in this book, and there are some discussions surrounding her unwillingness to marry and the men involved in that stuff, this book isn’t really about her. Not in the typical sense anyway. Which makes for an interesting story – things are all about saving the Queen and her throne. I like anything that brings up Sir Francis Walsingham as well, so it was all around enjoyable for me.
This book also does a great job of making you think your main characters are in some actual danger, even though you can take a step back and realize that because these are all genuine historical figures, they have their own fates not included in this particular story. There were several occasions when I thought, “How on earth is Bruno going to get out of this one?” It’s quite the ride to see how that actually pans out.
There are some references to the previous book, but really, you don’t have to have read it to understand what is going on in this one, which I also liked. A series where the individual books can stand on their own is always good fun! I would say that this is a better book than Heresy was, so you may want to read that one first just for the context in terms of this particular author.
Overall, it’s a fun read and I think nearly everyone will enjoy it!
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directly involved with the court of Elizabeth I.Unlike a lot of historical fiction, this one has nearly no romance and is primarily about finding the murderer of Cecily Ashe, as well as trying to uncover the latest plot to overthrow Elizabeth and restore Mary Stuart to the throne. Are the two things related? Is it mere coincidence that they happened at the same time?
I really liked that although Elizabeth is in this book, and there are some discussions surrounding her unwillingness to marry and the men involved in that stuff, this book isn’t really about her. Not in the typical sense anyway. Which makes for an interesting story – things are all about saving the Queen and her throne. I like anything that brings up Sir Francis Walsingham as well, so it was all around enjoyable for me.
This book also does a great job of making you think your main characters are in some actual danger, even though you can take a step back and realize that because these are all genuine historical figures, they have their own fates not included in this particular story. There were several occasions when I thought, “How on earth is Bruno going to get out of this one?” It’s quite the ride to see how that actually pans out.
There are some references to the previous book, but really, you don’t have to have read it to understand what is going on in this one, which I also liked. A series where the individual books can stand on their own is always good fun! I would say that this is a better book than Heresy was, so you may want to read that one first just for the context in terms of this particular author.
Overall, it’s a fun read and I think nearly everyone will enjoy it!
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LibraryThing member jenngv
This book is like many historical thrillers and is convoluted with a lot of characters to keep track of. As I read it, the characters and the protagonist become clearer in my mind and I can be transported into the story. So far it is enjoyable and has not disappointed. I am about 170 pages into it
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and will continue the review... Show Less
LibraryThing member TooBusyReading
It is 1583 and excommunicated monk Giordano Bruno is not what he seems. He is living in the French embassy in England, and finds himself investigating the murder of one of Queen Elizabeth's maids of honour. And he is embroiled in plots to replace Elizabeth with Mary Stuart, and to restore
This historical thriller mixes history and intrigue during a time that was full of plots and danger, wrapped in tales of prophecy and astrology and forbidden arts. It's the second Giordano Bruno thriller, but a reader who has not read the first, Heresy, won't be lost.
It took me about 50 pages to really get involved in the story. During the first few pages, I felt like I needed a cast of characters but that quickly sorted itself out. And then there was a little too much dialogue used to explain the background story. After that, the story moved more quickly, and kept my interest. Both the fictional story and the very real history behind it were well told, making for a very good read.
Thank you to Doubleday for giving me an advance reader's copy of this book.
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Catholicism to its rightful place in England. It doesn't help that Bruno is a foreigner, a heretic who doesn't believe that the sun revolves around the earth. Who is on what side? Who is a traitor or a spy? And who can Bruno trust?This historical thriller mixes history and intrigue during a time that was full of plots and danger, wrapped in tales of prophecy and astrology and forbidden arts. It's the second Giordano Bruno thriller, but a reader who has not read the first, Heresy, won't be lost.
It took me about 50 pages to really get involved in the story. During the first few pages, I felt like I needed a cast of characters but that quickly sorted itself out. And then there was a little too much dialogue used to explain the background story. After that, the story moved more quickly, and kept my interest. Both the fictional story and the very real history behind it were well told, making for a very good read.
Thank you to Doubleday for giving me an advance reader's copy of this book.
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LibraryThing member 4fish
Giordano Bruno is a disgraced monk, excommunicated because he wouldn't stop reading books condemned by the Catholic Church. He fled his Italian monastery one jump ahead of the Inquisition. Now he's sheltering at the French embassy in London and gathering intelligence for Walsingham, Elizabeth I's
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spymaster. His latest adventure involves Catholic plots to free the imprisoned Mary Queen of Scots, doomsday prophecies and murder at the heart of Elizabeth's court. I found it hard to put down and especially interesting because I'm listening to Margaret George's "Elizabeth I" at the same time. This is set in a slightly earlier time period, but features many of the same historical figures. Show Less
LibraryThing member Bookluver42
Based on one of my favorite times in British history this was, of course, very intriguing from the beginning. The detail was wonderful. Once I picked up the book it held my interest even though there were a few sluggish parts that I skimmed over nothing was missed. In fact, I read it in two days.
This is the first book I’ve read by Ms Parris and I’m anxious to read Heresy for more and hope for more in the future.
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Couldn’t put it down!!!!This is the first book I’ve read by Ms Parris and I’m anxious to read Heresy for more and hope for more in the future.
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LibraryThing member bratlaw
The novel covers the conflict with the followers of Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Stewart. Giordano Bruno is a former monk. His Patron is King Henry III of France. he's living under the protection of the French ambassador in England. Bruno secretly sides with Queen Elizabeth and was hired by her
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spymaster to dig up useful information that would help the Queen. The plot has twists and turns with the added mystery of the murder of the Queen's ladies. I was drawn into the story until the very last page. Show Less
LibraryThing member Shuffy2
It is 1583, and Giordano Bruno has fled Italy to escape religious persecution but is he any safer in England?
A young woman is found dead, but it is no ordinary death. What makes matters worse-- she was Queen Elizabeth's maid and her body was found within the palace walls. Bruno is enlisted to help
Great historical who-dun-it! Suspense, mystery and history all rolled into one. I found the novel a bit hard to get into a first but that soon changed and once I was drawn in it kept me wondering until the end. Perfect summer read for historical fiction fans!
A young woman is found dead, but it is no ordinary death. What makes matters worse-- she was Queen Elizabeth's maid and her body was found within the palace walls. Bruno is enlisted to help
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solve the murder however he discovers a much bigger plot that puts his life in danger- not to mention the life of the Queen! Will he discover the murderer in time and how does religion and magic factor into everything....Great historical who-dun-it! Suspense, mystery and history all rolled into one. I found the novel a bit hard to get into a first but that soon changed and once I was drawn in it kept me wondering until the end. Perfect summer read for historical fiction fans!
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LibraryThing member lilkim714
What a fabulous read! I loved this book. This is the second book in the Giordano Bruno series and I recommend the first one Heresy just as much as this one. This book hits the ground running as soon as you begin and doesn't leave off the suspense until the very last page. A mystery that leaves you
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guessing until the very end with plot twists and surprises that you never see coming. I most definitely can't wait to see what the author has in store for Giordano and am anxiously awaiting the next release. Recommended very highly for historical fiction and mystery fans alike. Show Less
LibraryThing member dgmlrhodes
This book is a historical thriller set in 1583 about excommunicated monk Giordano Bruno. He is living in the French embassy in England, and finds himself investigating the murder of one of Queen Elizabeth's maids. Like any story about the intrigues of the court, there are plots to replace Elizabeth
This is the second book in the series, but you don't need to have read Heresy to understand what is going on. However, there are references to what happened throughout so I wish I had read Heresy first.
This book is impeccably researched and well written. A great historical fiction/thriller.
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and to restore Catholicism to its rightful place in England. Not only is there a nice mix of history and intrigue, there are elements of prophecy and forbidden arts. This is the second book in the series, but you don't need to have read Heresy to understand what is going on. However, there are references to what happened throughout so I wish I had read Heresy first.
This book is impeccably researched and well written. A great historical fiction/thriller.
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LibraryThing member bwightman
I received this book through LibraryThing's Early Reviewers program. At first, I found it difficult to get into, and the storyline seemed somewhat twisted and opaque, but as the book went on I became more interested in the story. I believe this is actually the second in a series with Giordiano
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Bruno as the main character. Interesting read, but slow at first. I plan on picking up the first title soon! Show Less
LibraryThing member Morganna1afey
I liked this book, although I had a hard time getting into it at first. It had a good plot, but it seemed to move very slowly in the first half of the book, then at breakneck speed during the second half. The prologue is a bit confusing; I am not really into astrology: this book gets very technical
With that said, however, I did enjoy the story as a whole. I liked the intrigue and suspense; I always enjoy a good murder mystery as long as it isn’t too gory. The history is accurate, from what I can tell; I studied the Renaissance era in college quite extensively and the writer uses terms from the period. I did notice that she uses some terms of speech that may not have been a part of the era, like when Bruno gets jumped, he later replies, “You should have seen the other guy.” I think that is modern. Maybe she was attempting to modernize it a bit, and if so, that’s okay. It just seemed a bit jarring to me.
If the opportunity presented itself, I would read more of S.J. Parris, but I would probably wait until I had time on my hands- it took me a month to read this, because it was so detailed, and I normally read much faster.
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about astrology- signs and symbols that I do not have prior knowledge of- so it makes it difficult to follow at times. I have a feeling that this is the second book in a series, because some of the narrative seems to speak of Bruno’s past that the reader should be aware of. I felt lost at times, not knowing what Bruno’s actual position is with Walsingham- I didn’t realize that Walsingham had recruited Bruno to officially ‘spy’ for him and the Queen until the last part of the book.With that said, however, I did enjoy the story as a whole. I liked the intrigue and suspense; I always enjoy a good murder mystery as long as it isn’t too gory. The history is accurate, from what I can tell; I studied the Renaissance era in college quite extensively and the writer uses terms from the period. I did notice that she uses some terms of speech that may not have been a part of the era, like when Bruno gets jumped, he later replies, “You should have seen the other guy.” I think that is modern. Maybe she was attempting to modernize it a bit, and if so, that’s okay. It just seemed a bit jarring to me.
If the opportunity presented itself, I would read more of S.J. Parris, but I would probably wait until I had time on my hands- it took me a month to read this, because it was so detailed, and I normally read much faster.
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LibraryThing member ddelmoni
When I found out this ARC was the second in a mystery series I knew this review would take longer to get done. I simply can’t start a series from anywhere but the beginning! It’s not necessary to read Heresy, [Prophecy] truly does stand on its own, but I’m very glad I did.
Once again
Reformation and Catholism is a theme in the series and Parris relies heavily on real life characters for her fiction. With Prophecy she crafted a much stronger novel than its predecessor. There is fascinating political intrigue (Scotland, France and Spain), a more interesting cast of characters (Maria…hummm) and a mystery that I couldn’t figure out until just before the very end (and even then I had 2 suspects).
Giordano Bruno alone was enticing enough of a character to make me interested in this series but Parris is getting better with each installment. I’m really looking forward to Book 3.
Once again
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Giordano Bruno, renegade monk, philosopher, professor, scientist and spy is called upon to thwart plots to topple Elizabeth I from her throne on the 25th anniversary of her ascension. This time, the plot is to put Mary Queen of Scots on the throne of England and bring the island back into the “true” faith. Reformation and Catholism is a theme in the series and Parris relies heavily on real life characters for her fiction. With Prophecy she crafted a much stronger novel than its predecessor. There is fascinating political intrigue (Scotland, France and Spain), a more interesting cast of characters (Maria…hummm) and a mystery that I couldn’t figure out until just before the very end (and even then I had 2 suspects).
Giordano Bruno alone was enticing enough of a character to make me interested in this series but Parris is getting better with each installment. I’m really looking forward to Book 3.
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LibraryThing member Miela
This book was OK, but I thought that it wasn't really that great of a read. It was hard to get into, and I had a hard time maintaining interest in it.
LibraryThing member bridgetmarkwood
I was thrilled to receive this book through the Early Reviewer's Program. An Elizabethan murder mystery covers my two favorite genres. There is no doubt that SJ Parris is a good writer. Though not poetic or particularly amazing, her words certainly paint the picture of what she wants you to see.
For me, the parts of the book that deal directly with the "Prophecy" and the murder mystery (including trying to figure it out) were great. I was enticed, as I should be, and excited to turn the next page. Unfortunately, I think this book was mis-categorized. It is one part historical mystery and five parts Elizabethan politics.
I found that I kept wishing the book would get back to the thrilling mystery I was looking forward to and get away from all the who-is-on-what-side and the plot to sabotage the queen. Though I see that these are loosely related to the mystery, I felt like the mysteries were more thrown in as a thread to tie and showcase the political battles of the time. With lots of characters and representations of others holding essential positions, it will certainly give one a better understanding of the politics at the tumultuous time of Queen Elizabeth vs Queen Mary. Though somewhat interesting, I was really hoping it would be the other way around. My final thoughts are these: If you are a historical politics buff, this book rocks (seriously, well written, researched, etc.)! If you are looking for a historical murder mystery as the focus of the book, this may not be the book for you.
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For me, the parts of the book that deal directly with the "Prophecy" and the murder mystery (including trying to figure it out) were great. I was enticed, as I should be, and excited to turn the next page. Unfortunately, I think this book was mis-categorized. It is one part historical mystery and five parts Elizabethan politics.
I found that I kept wishing the book would get back to the thrilling mystery I was looking forward to and get away from all the who-is-on-what-side and the plot to sabotage the queen. Though I see that these are loosely related to the mystery, I felt like the mysteries were more thrown in as a thread to tie and showcase the political battles of the time. With lots of characters and representations of others holding essential positions, it will certainly give one a better understanding of the politics at the tumultuous time of Queen Elizabeth vs Queen Mary. Though somewhat interesting, I was really hoping it would be the other way around. My final thoughts are these: If you are a historical politics buff, this book rocks (seriously, well written, researched, etc.)! If you are looking for a historical murder mystery as the focus of the book, this may not be the book for you.
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LibraryThing member cyderry
This Historical thriller is the second in the series with excommunicated monk Giordano Bruno as the central character. Bruno, a "secret agent" of Walsingham (one of Queen Elizabeth's advisors), is part of the French embassy's delegation. Sent to England by King Henri to avoid religious
The murders are vailed with the mystery of the Prophecy related to the great Conjunction - Saturn and Jupiter aligning - which foretells of the end of an age. Just as we all know from history, the rivalry of Elizabeth and Mary is also the rivalry of Catholic vs. Protestant. The investigation weaves together the occult of the period as well as the conspiracies of the characters.
Great characters as well as a great story.
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repercussions, Bruno is drawn into the murders of two of the Queen's Maids of Honor as well as a plot on the Queen's life and replacement on her throne by Mary of Scotland. The murders are vailed with the mystery of the Prophecy related to the great Conjunction - Saturn and Jupiter aligning - which foretells of the end of an age. Just as we all know from history, the rivalry of Elizabeth and Mary is also the rivalry of Catholic vs. Protestant. The investigation weaves together the occult of the period as well as the conspiracies of the characters.
Great characters as well as a great story.
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LibraryThing member john257hopper
This was the second novel in this series featuring Giordano Bruno as the sleuth in exile in England from the Inquisition and working for Sir Francis Walsingham, Queen Elizabeth's spymaster. He is here uncovering yet another Catholic plot, this one involving Henry Howard, younger brother of the Duke
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of Norfolk who was executed after plotting to overthrow the Queen and marry Mary, Queen of Scots. Henry Howard's plot involves other English rebel Catholics, the Duke of Guise, the Spanish Ambassador Mendoza and the Scots. And the mystic/magician John Dee, unwittingly, as well. It is intricately plotted and very well written and researched, but I do not feel the depth of characterisation present in C J Sanson's Matthew Shardlake. Show Less
LibraryThing member JBD1
An excellent followup to Heresy, S.J. Parris' Prophecy sees Giordano Bruno back in the thick of things, trying to keep a conspiracy from bringing down Queen Elizabeth (and hopefully keeping himself alive in the process).
Parris' depiction of John Dee's laboratory and library alone make the book
The third volume in the series arrived this week (prompting me to read this one quickly so I can catch up); I'm looking forward to it with anticipation.
Parris' depiction of John Dee's laboratory and library alone make the book
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worth reading; the fact that she's also managed to put together a good, complicated political thriller is icing on the cake. Her Bruno is an enjoyable character, and even though my favorite character from the last book (the bookseller Rowland Jenkes) doesn't make a re-appearance, I suppose there's hope that he might return in the next volume.The third volume in the series arrived this week (prompting me to read this one quickly so I can catch up); I'm looking forward to it with anticipation.
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LibraryThing member marysneedle
I love the Giordano Bruno character. This was another great thriller with the same believable characters and enough history to make if very interesting. I am looking forward to the third Bruno escapade.
LibraryThing member cattriona
This book was a pleasant read, but nothing particularly special. Without spoiling any plot details, the hero had a few too many convenient escapes to enable any suspension of disbelief, and there were no particularly original plot devices used. Though the story mentions both Elizabeth I and Mary
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Queen of Scots, the reader doesn't actually see much of either of them, so fans seeking those 2 personas will want to look elsewhere. Show Less
LibraryThing member johnwbeha
I quite enjoyed this book, the background is well researched and well woven into an intricate plot, featuring a large cast of nicely drawn characters. BUT, it is around 60 pages too long and thus lacks the pace needed to make it a four star book for me. BUT I will be reading book 3 and, probably,
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book 4. Show Less
LibraryThing member John_Warner
This historical mystery is the second in the Giordano Bruno series involving the Italian heretic monk excommunicated from the 16th century Catholic faith for his scientific studies that were contrary church dogma. Bruno's deductive services are again requested by Queen Elizabeth's spymaster,
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Francis Walsingham. The 25th anniversary of the queen's accession to the throne is near and one of the queen's maid of honors has been discovered murdered, which is soon followed by another. Both murders involve victims who have astrological signs inscribed into their skin. Bruno is pressured into finding the killer or killers before an assassination plot agains the queen can be realized. As an Episcopalian and fan of historical mysteries, I enjoy reading this series. Show Less
LibraryThing member KarenDuff
It is the Autumn of 1583 and Catholic plotters in England and France are planning to replace Queen Elizabeth with Mary Queen of Scots, Giordano Bruno is set by Walsingham to infiltrate the plotters at the French embassy.
I thought this book was very well written and researched. The story moves along
I think the author has done a very good job in evoking life at the elizabethan court, with all its intrigues,paranoia and deception.
I liked the fact that there were some elements of the story that if they are fact I hadn't read before and now I will have to go and research those parts of the story to find out if they really happened. I like when author assume that their readers will know something about the period in which the story is set and if they don't know something they will read up about it.
My only complaint about this book is that I knew who the murderer was when they made their first appearance, other than that I thought this was a very enjoyable read and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoyed S J Parris's novel Heresy or anyone who enjoys C.J.Samson's Matthew Shardlake series.
I thought this book was very well written and researched. The story moves along
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at a good pace, and the atmosphere that is created is suspenseful and page-turning, in fact I only put it down because I had to go to work.I think the author has done a very good job in evoking life at the elizabethan court, with all its intrigues,paranoia and deception.
I liked the fact that there were some elements of the story that if they are fact I hadn't read before and now I will have to go and research those parts of the story to find out if they really happened. I like when author assume that their readers will know something about the period in which the story is set and if they don't know something they will read up about it.
My only complaint about this book is that I knew who the murderer was when they made their first appearance, other than that I thought this was a very enjoyable read and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoyed S J Parris's novel Heresy or anyone who enjoys C.J.Samson's Matthew Shardlake series.
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Awards
Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice (Thriller)