This is the fourth book in the historical Jackdaw series about unorthodox doctor (and sometimes spy for Robert Cecil ) Nicholas Shelby. The plot starts with the Queens physician being falsely executed for treason. This spurs someone into falsely accusing Nicholas of plotting to poison the Queen. Unable to prove his innocence, Nicholas and his wife Bianca escape across the Channel on the way to Padua, Bianca’s birthplace. Back in London Ned and Rose oversee the rebuilding of the Jackdaw tavern and trying to find who wrongly accused Nicholas via an anonymous letter.
I am a big fan of this series but found this plot to be quite slow in the first half with peculiar characters that I didn’t engage with. It lacked the humour and everyday life of the time which characterised the previous books. This book can be read as a stand alone but more enjoyable to read them in order. I look forward to the next instalment of Nicholas and Bianca’s adventures.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I am a big fan of this series but found this plot to be quite slow in the first half with peculiar characters that I didn’t engage with. It lacked the humour and everyday life of the time which characterised the previous books. This book can be read as a stand alone but more enjoyable to read them in order. I look forward to the next instalment of Nicholas and Bianca’s adventures.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.