Blood on the Borders by
Judith Cook
hbk out January 99
Published by Headline
at £16.99
All the tensions, political and religious manoeuvrings of the latter years of Elizabeth 1's reign are brought to life in this latest book by Judith Cook. Starring Dr Simon Forman (medical practitioner, astrologer and solver of mysteries) it focuses on the hidden links between Elizabeth's court and that of her heir: James VI of Scotland.
Waking up in the early hours of May Day 1592, Simon Forman finds a man on his doorstep dying of a sword thrust. To his horror, the next morning he is in the offices of Sir Robert Cecil, accused of dealing with enemies of the state. Given the choice between imprisonment (and worse) or travelling to Scotland on a secret spying mission, Simon has little option but to embark on what becomes a very hazardous journey. Who is friend and who is foe? And when the murders begin Simon finds himself in the position of being the main suspect. Finally accused of the murder of one of King James' friends, Simon has to eventually flee for his life. Attempts to find the ruthless killer lead Simon into contact with many lively characters including bloodthirsty Border Reivers, playwright and spy Christopher Marlowe and pamphleteer Robert Green. An enthralling fast paced read.
Blood on the Borders by
Judith Cook