Although a sequel to 'The Spy of Venice' I read this as a stand alone book having no knowledge of the previous plot or characters. Despite this, the characters felt fully realised and the plot was not dictated by what had gone before, meaning it can be followed with some ease. It begins slowly with the first act necessary to establish the various characters and their origins before moving them where they need to be. I found this helped with the transition towards reading the language of Shakespeare which can be somewhat difficult to understand but also provides brilliantly witty comedy. The plot does pick up pace about halfway through and continues with great character progression. A beautiful cover opens up to wit, wooing, and woe.