Despite not having read the previous installments, I found no issues in reading the novel as a standalone as the readers are kept well-informed of previous events and character backstories. The novel was well paced, an interesting mix of history and fiction and clearly well researched with identifiable historical events, and locations, mentioned throughout the story. Set in 1594, The Heretic’s Mark follows physician Nicholas Shelby and wife Bianca Merton in their efforts to escape conspiracies and treasonous accusations across several countries, accompanied by a sinister religious fanatic who has latched herself onto the couple, with her true intentions slowly emerging throughout the novel.
The book’s greatest strengths were the pacing, solid mystery and differing character perspectives - I particularly enjoyed Bianca, Ned and Nicholas’ storylines - and these were clearly discernible from each other. Aside from a few perspective switches that felt abrupt and halted the pacing before an important event, the different storylines really drove the plot forward. I did, however, find myself losing interest in the romantic issues subplot and the conflict between the established couple, however, enjoyed the scheming, historical and scientific aspects of the story and the solid conclusion encourages me to check out the previous installments.
The book’s greatest strengths were the pacing, solid mystery and differing character perspectives - I particularly enjoyed Bianca, Ned and Nicholas’ storylines - and these were clearly discernible from each other. Aside from a few perspective switches that felt abrupt and halted the pacing before an important event, the different storylines really drove the plot forward. I did, however, find myself losing interest in the romantic issues subplot and the conflict between the established couple, however, enjoyed the scheming, historical and scientific aspects of the story and the solid conclusion encourages me to check out the previous installments.