The story begins by introducing us to Nicholas a protestant physician and Bianca, his Italian catholic tavern owning wife in Elizabethan London so I knew the future would not be smooth for them. And indeed, it's not long before our pair are forced to flee to Europe on a journey filled with murder, intrigue, treachery and danger. Leaving behind their employees and friends Rose and Ned to protect their interests while in exile. We learn more about this couple and their lives on London's riverside. They are beautifully written with great affection so I was rooting for them to make their difficult lives better.... I can't say more without spoiling a great yarn! The main protagonists are well rounded, imperfect characters who are struggling to fit into the rigid conformity of their lives. When a chance meeting with a desperate zealous Catholic girl throws even more drama their way, Bianca and Nicholas must navigate them all to safety in Padua. Loved the combination of real historical characters and events and the drama woven between them. Highly recommend!