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.