Though her clothing was still damp and she was shivering with cold, Eleanor was grateful to have only a few cuts and bruises after her exploits thus … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Week 5
Shadow Of Doubt
This story fits within the Craft of Kings series set in the 1480s, between Book 3, Echoes of Treason and the final book, Crown of Fear, out later this year. However, the story itself is self-contained and can be read without any knowledge of the series – nor are there any major spoilers for the series.
By the early spring of 1485, the Elder family are still licking the wounds sustained in the abortive October Rebellion of 1483 against King Richard III. The head of the family, outlawed Lord John Elder has joined the pretender, Henry Tudor in France while his aunt and half-sister linger in the dubious safety of Ludlow.
Though John is one of the most wanted enemies of the crown, as long as the ladies have no contact with him, they are unlikely to be harmed by the king. King Richard’s closest adviser, William Catesby, knowing an invasion is certain, is keen to capture any of Tudor’s supporters if they land in England. Henry Tudor though is also anxious to find out who, among prominent Englishmen, he can rely upon. So in March 1485 he sends his trusted ally, John Elder to sound out one man who might hold the key to his success in the south west.
Shadow Of Doubt, Day 25
When the rider burst out of the trees towards him, a glance at the sky told John Elder that dawn was only moments away. In his haste to report his … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Day 25
Shadow Of Doubt, Day 24
Conal wiped the beads of sweat from his forehead as he strained to hear what was going on around him. By the sound of it, not much; and that was … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Day 24
Shadow Of Doubt, Day 23
In the solar of Acton house, Meg Elder witnessed tension straining the features of every face. Beside her, Lady Margaret Poyntz sat rigidly upright, … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Day 23
Shadow Of Doubt, Day 22
The sound of the men coming back up the stair was accompanied by a flickering glow. Knowing she had only moments, Eleanor scrambled across the floor … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Day 22
Shadow Of Doubt, Day 21
Though her clothing was still damp and she was shivering with cold, Eleanor was grateful to have only a few cuts and bruises after her exploits thus … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Day 21
Shadow Of Doubt, Week 4
At Acton Court, the silence between the two women, wary at first, was now companionable. But as Meg watched Lady Margaret finish her embroidery, she … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Week 4
Shadow Of Doubt, Day 20
As they waited on the bridge for the door to be opened, Conal stood beside the doorway, hidden by a stone pillar. In his left hand he carried Poyntz’ … [Read more...] about Shadow Of Doubt, Day 20